Sudden death of young hen - what should I watch out for in the rest of the flock?

[Kayempea]

We’ve lost one of our Olive Egger’s very suddenly this evening - she was fine when I put them all to bed then when I checked a few hours later she was collapsed on the floor of the coop. I took her inside, warmed her by the fire and tried to clear her airway as she was very raspy. I’ve done CPR on humans but never on a chicken! I managed to intubate her to try and clear her airway, but all that came up was blood and puss. Sadly she passed away peacefully at our fireside when I accepted there was nothing more I could do for her. I’m now concerned that she may have a respiratory infection that could potentially affect the rest of the flock, but the onset was so sudden I’ve no idea what to look for. There are eight remaining birds in the flock (2 cockerels and 6 hens) who all appear to be healthy and well. Any recommendations for preventative treatment or symptoms to watch out for are welcome. They have flubenvet every couple of months for a week and they have Vermex added to their water.

 

[azygous]

Are you in the US? If so, a state agricultural lab can perform a necropsy on this hen and tell you exactly what she died from.

 

[micstrachan]

I agree a necropsy is in order. So sorry for your loss.