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You really need to check with the organization certifying organic to be sure. It is a live virus so probably not, but not all certifying agencies follow the exact same rules. And that live virus used to vaccinate the chickens is actually Turkey Marek's. I'm not sure how different organic organizations handle that.
The online literature I've read indicates that vaccines do not compromise organic status. Of course, you'd need to check with your local certifying organization, but chances are good that you'd be ok.
http://www.thepoultrysite.com/artic...m-processing-for-organic-producers-table-eggs
I still have three chicks. I got them myself from a breeder who had no exposure to Mareks and I took them to my home where they were my first ever chicks to raise. Now, as I said, I haven't received results of cause of death, so silly to argue about how my chick got Mareks. But I believe that this virus is prevalent.
My other three chicks are healthy and fine. They are vaccinated, as was the chick that died. But this just happened last week, so I don't know what will happen with my ladies. I'm hoping/praying that the living three will be fine.
I just don't think that anyone should flat out be against vaccines, either to save money or to be organic. Now, if there is research out there indicating that there is harm caused by the vaccine or that it is useless, I'd like to know. But so far considering what I've read and listening to people who raise chickens who I respect, the Mareks vaccine seems like a very wise precaution to take care of the safety and health of your flock.
