Mareks.

[MelRoethle]

Hello. I am pretty new to chickens and I have 3 young hens (16 weeks). I have one case of Mareks in my Brahma. She is paralysed in her left leg and has some droopage in her left wing. Despite that she stiill hops around failry well, eating and drinking like a champ. She is seperated from the others, but they are obviously exposed. Tho presently they are showing no symptoms. My question is, will I be able to add to my flock? Before this happened I was so looking forward to try my hand at exhibiting (as a hobby) and I wanted to keep a small flock. But if the others have been exposed does this mean anything new i bring in will potentially die of Mareks? and how can i exhibit a bird that has been exposed without endangering others birds? I read that the disease can live in your soil/coop etc FOR A VERY LONG TIME. Does this mean i can only have my other 2 until they die, of Mareks, old age etc? And then what?! I am not certain that my chicks were vaccinated, so I just assume not. Any input is greatly appreciated, just devasted at the soon to be loss of my favorite bird. Its always the favorite.

 

[1muttsfan]

It is frustrating and sad to loose birds to Mareks - it often happens just as they reach maturity. Very sorry to hear about your loss.

You should be able to safely add vaccinated chicks and birds to your flock, although it would be wise to keep them completely separated for a few weeks to allow their immune system to provide immunity before mixing them with your flock. Vaccination, while not preventing infection, will reduce illness and allow you to keep birds without deaths. Some specialists in chicken care believe that Mareks is almost universal among backyard flocks.