Those of us who have lost any of our flock to Marek's has learned the hard way how important vaccination is. Marek's is a pervasive disease and near impossible to eradicate once it has been introduced to your barn. The virus can survive in the soil and in dust for years. Bleach and careful hygiene can't keep it away because, as was mentioned several times, the virus can travel on air, shoes, clothes and wild birds.
Vaccination is the only way. I have even resolved to vaccinate adult birds if I'm not sure of their provenance and whether they were vaccinated at hatching. It is risk free and if it saves even one grown bird it's worth it.
Vaccination is the only way. I have even resolved to vaccinate adult birds if I'm not sure of their provenance and whether they were vaccinated at hatching. It is risk free and if it saves even one grown bird it's worth it.