- May 13, 2024
- 7,623
- 32,612
- 926
Is mareks disease a type of cancer?The most common type of cancer in chickens is Marek's disease. Marek's disease is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects chickens, causing tumors to develop in various tissues, including nerves, skin, and internal organs. The tumors associated with Marek's disease can lead to a range of symptoms, including paralysis, weight loss, and eventually death.
Marek's disease is caused by the Marek's disease virus (MDV), a type of herpesvirus that is spread through dander and airborne particles shed by infected birds. The virus primarily affects young chickens, typically between 12 and 25 weeks of age, although it can occur in birds of any age.
Preventing Marek's disease involves vaccination of chicks at a young age and implementing biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of the virus within flocks. Unfortunately, there is no cure for Marek's disease once a bird has been infected. Early detection and management of clinical signs are crucial for maintaining the health of affected chickens and preventing the spread of the disease within the flock.