Am I supposed to vaccinate my chickens? If so, for what?

[Shelly Chip]

Hi guys, new chicken owner here who knows nothing about vaccines. I live in Michigan. What, if any, vaccines do I need to give?

Shelly

 

[Wyandottes7]

Chickens aren't like dogs or cats; you can give them vaccinations, but it isn't required. Some good vaccinations to give include those for Marek's Disease and respiratory diseases, like Newcastle and Bronchitis. There are also vaccines for Fowl Pox and Infectious Laryngotracheitis. The Marek's vaccination is really only affective if given at one day old, so if your birds are older than that, its probably not a good idea to give it. Many other vaccines can be given when a chicken is older.

 

[dawg53]

There are many vaccinations that can be given to chickens. Consider calling your local extension office or state agriculture department and ask what poultry diseases are prevelent in your area, then decide if you want to vaccinate for those particular diseases if any at all. Alot of folks dont vaccinate at all. Here's a couple of links for you to read regarding vaccinating in small flocks:
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ps030
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/vm062

 

[BantamLover21]

Chickens aren't like dogs or cats; you can give them vaccinations, but it isn't required. Some good vaccinations to give include those for Marek's Disease and respiratory diseases, like Newcastle and Bronchitis. There are also vaccines for Fowl Pox and Infectious Laryngotracheitis. The Marek's vaccination is really only affective if given at one day old, so if your birds are older than that, its probably not a good idea to give it. Many other vaccines can be given when a chicken is older.

x2