Solitary chicken - need advice

[laurabeth67]

I have 3 chocolate Orpington Bantams and a Pekin Bantam who are 4 years old and I 'think' vaccinated, and a Pekin Bantam + a Pekin Bantam cockerel that I hatched under a broody 3 years ago. These have not been vaccinated but the lady who sold me the eggs bred for immunity. Recently the Pekin hen that I have hatched developed a problem with her eye, the pupil is fixed and the colour has changed to blue. She is slightly quieter than normal but otherwise fine. I took her to my vet who initially wasn't sure, but then called me later to tell me she thought it was Marek's disease. Obviously I was gutted. She is otherwise fine. My questions are, is there anything else it could be? From what I've read she seems quite old for Marek's. I can only presume a wild bird somehow transferred it as no other chicken contact. Will she definitely die? Obviously wouldn't let her suffer, and even if vaccinated, can the others get it? I have bought a viralcidal cleaner to try and cut down on the virus that is being shed. Anything else I should do? Many thanks for any advice!

[Luvachicken]

I'm afraid I don't have any answers for you but wanted to say I hope she gets better soon.

Mine have only had antibiotics for anything they have had in the past - usually Baytril - I'm sure someone will come along who knows more about what your chicken is suffering from and can give you advice.

[The Dogmother]

Marek's, as you probably know, is a herpes virus, and will remain dormant in a flock, only coming to the fore if a bird's immune system is compromised. It isn't possible to eradicate, but anything which lessens stress on them, or helps to support good health will help.

 

I have had two birds die of Marek's in the past, one from the classic, fast form, and another from the slower version. It's there, and there's nothing I can do about it; I don't breed from, or sell on my birds, so there's no risk of spreading it around either. I wouldn't worry too much about it.