Marek's disease

[n2zoey]

I have just lost a whole flock of hens to Marek's disease. I thought they were vaccinated when I purchased them and unfortunately they all succumbed to this disease at the age of 2. Does anyone know if a hard freeze will kill the virus in the soil and grass? They free ranged so unfortunately there are feathers throughout the yard. I am truly scared to get more hens until I find out more info re. This virus.
Thanks-Judy

 

[MysteryChicken]

The vaccine isn't a preventative, nor does it make a bird immune. It makes the birds that are vaccinated carriers of the disease that live longer due to tumor suppression.

I don't think a freeze will do anything. The virus can live in the environment for upto 2yrs.

 

[Kiki]

Virkon can rid it from the coop.
https://virkon.us/

 

[Nyhillbillies]

I have just lost a whole flock of hens to Marek's disease. I thought they were vaccinated when I purchased them and unfortunately they all succumbed to this disease at the age of 2. Does anyone know if a hard freeze will kill the virus in the soil and grass? They free ranged so unfortunately there are feathers throughout the yard. I am truly scared to get more hens until I find out more info re. This virus.
Thanks-Judy

How horrible, Judy! We’re so very sorry this happened to your ladies.

 

[Wyorp Rock]

I have just lost a whole flock of hens to Marek's disease. I thought they were vaccinated when I purchased them and unfortunately they all succumbed to this disease at the age of 2. Does anyone know if a hard freeze will kill the virus in the soil and grass? They free ranged so unfortunately there are feathers throughout the yard. I am truly scared to get more hens until I find out more info re. This virus.
Thanks-Judy

I'm sorry for your loss.

Did you get a diagnosis of Marek's through testing/necropsy at your state lab?

 

[n2zoey]

I'm sorry for your loss.

Did you get a diagnosis of Marek's through testing/necropsy at your state lab?

No through clinical presentation

 

[Eggcessive]

Since other diseases, mold, poisoning, botulism, lead paint or shot in the soil, are some things that can look like Mareks, it is usually best to get a chicken tested with a necropsy to get a diagnosis. What were the symptoms your chickens showed. What were the ages, and were they all sick at the same time? So sorry for your loss. Here is a good article to read:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/the-great-big-giant-mareks-disease-faq.66077/