

This is for the convenience of vaccine manufacturers and commercial producers who often have several thousand birds to vaccinate at one time. Poultry vaccines are produced in large dose vials intended for commercial use. Hatcheries and poultry suppliers are usually the best sources of vaccines. After vaccinating, burn or disinfect all opened containers to prevent accidental spread to other poultry.Live-virus vaccines are readily destroyed by these chemicals. When using the drinking-water method of vaccination, be sure the water is free of sanitizers and chlorine.Most vaccines are living, disease-producing agents.Protect vaccines from heat and direct sunlight.Do not vaccinate sick birds (except in outbreaks of laryngotracheitis or fowl pox).Each vaccine is designed for a specific route of administration.Any outdated product should be discarded. Rotate vaccine stock, as vaccines can deteriorate over time.An exception is the vaccination for Marek's disease, which is ordinarily given on the day of hatch. Vaccination of chicks at less than 10 days of age often does not produce uniform or lasting immunity. Newly hatched chicks have some passive immunity passed from the mother through the egg.If the entire flock is not vaccinated properly, the disease may spread. All vaccines are labeled with instructions for use and expiration dates. If a vaccine is mishandled or improperly used, it may result in vaccination failure.

It is important to note, however, that vaccination is not a substitute for effective biosecurity and sanitation practices. Since these diseases can also infect organic poultry, a routine vaccination program is recommended. (4) Biologics-Vaccines.Ĭonventional poultry are usually vaccinated against a variety of diseases including Marek's disease, Newcastle disease, infectious bronchitis, Infectious laryngotracheitis, fowl pox, and fowl cholera. In accordance with restrictions specified in this section the following synthetic substances may be used in organic livestock production: (a) As disinfectants, sanitizer, and medical treatments as applicable. § 205.603 Synthetic substances allowed for use in organic livestock production. (a) The producer must establish and maintain preventive livestock health care practices, including: (6) Administration of vaccines and other veterinary biologics. Always check with your certification agency before administering any product to your livestock § 205.238 Livestock health care practice standard. Approved vaccines are allowed under the USDA organic standards. Vaccination is an effective means to prevent and/or reduce the adverse effects of specific diseases that can cause problems in a poultry flock.

Jacquie Jacob Ph.D., University of Kentucky Introduction
