Killer in the Shadows. How My Flock and I Learned to Deal With Marek's Disease

I have mareks in my flock. I have lost 6 silkies to it always at point of lay and another one is showing signs. My oldest bantam silkie I've had 2 years has somehow survived the disease. I also have buff orphingtons who have been exposed however I haven't lost a single buff to the disease and I've had them 3 years. I've read that orphingtons are also susceptible to the disease however in my flock they haven't. I've also just hatched orphington chicks in my house and hoping they will be the same as my other oriphingtons.

This article is such a well-written, honest, and informative resource about something we all fear. Most of all, it leaves the reader with hope and not in a state of doom and gloom. Thank you!

Thank you, Becky, for sharing your story and the wisdom you gained. I do not have Marek's here that I'm aware of, but know those who do and wanted to learn more about it. I may face it someday and now will be a little bit more educated about it, but regardless, I wanted to know more to be able to be understanding with those I know who do have it. Thank you!

Informative and nicely written, very personable, and honest. What I really enjoyed was that you offer practical reasons for hope and a measure of optimism, where many would find only doom and gloom. Thank you!

Thank you for your very helpful article. I, too am 67 and have had chickens for 3 years now. This month a necropsy proved I have Mareks in my flock. The vet advised I cull them all. I only have 5 and simply cannot do it since they show no signs - yet. Your words have given me hope. If in my journey I find anything that helps I will share it. Thanks again!

Thank you for sharing your wisdom! I was wondering, what are some supportive measures to take to help a chicken sick with Marek's? Supplements, herbs, tips for keeping them comfortable?

Very interesting as well about the herpes visible in the eye. Have you found this to be helpful in finding treatments that could help?

This is a very educational article and I appreciate the personal storytelling approach you took. Thankyou for writing it up.

A sad story well told.

Your strength through this journey is amazing

Amazing, truly helpful story.

Nice article about your journey with mareks!

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience.

Wow. That was a roller coaster. I am so sorry about the loss of your birds. Very great article though.

Most excellent article - I would not expect anything less from you.

Very well done Becky. Informative and well written.

Very Well Done! Congratulations.

Excellent ! Thanks for sharing your story.