Avian Pox - is this a death sentence?

[Coach P]

Yesterday I noticed my Isa Brown, Ruffles' right eye is completely swollen shut.
Then, I found she has small, raised black spots on her comb. At first look, I thought they were small ticks attached to her.

Looks like she has Avian Pox from what I've read and that there is no cure. I didn't see whether or nor she can still live with this condition or if it's going to kill her.

I have 6 more pullets. If none are exhibiting any symptoms, can they still be vaccinated or is it pretty much a given that they all have it.

They all share one coop over night.

thanks
Coach P

 

[Judy]

Avian Pox or fowl pox is not a serious disease if it is confined to the comb and wattles. For the infected eye, I would get some antibiotic ophthalmic ointment from your feed store and apply a small amount once or twice a day. When fowl pox is in the mouth and throat, it is called wet pox and can be serious or even lethal.

My whole flock had this one year. It is a viral disease, self limiting to 3 weeks. The lesions on combs and wattles do not need treatment. if they eye problem also started with a fowl pox lesion, there is probably a secondary bacterial infection now, thus the antibiotic ointment. See here:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/avian-pox-how-to-treat-your-chickens-for-avian-pox

 

[Coach P]

Thanks,
the more I read, the more comfortable I feel, as long as this doesn't turn to wet pox.

I guessing it's too late to vaccinate the others? and I should just let it run it's course through the flock?

 

[Judy]

Having the pox acts like a vaccination. They only get it once.

 

[casportpony]

Thanks,
the more I read, the more comfortable I feel, as long as this doesn't turn to wet pox.

I guessing it's too late to vaccinate the others? and I should just let it run it's course through the flock?

Wet pox is not a death sentence. let me know if any get it and I'll help you treat them.

-Kathy