I see that some of the mail order companies offer vaccination for the chicks. What is this vaccination to prevent?
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If you have had an outbreak of coccidiosis in your flock and they were treated, what should I worry about when getting new chickens? Should I give medicated feed until they are older? Only buy vaccinated chicks? I lost one pullet and need to replace her and am new to chicken ownership so I am not sure what to do in this circumstance. Thank you!The vaccinations are for coccidiosis and mareks.
From McMurrays:
What is Coccidiosis and how do I control the disease?
Keeping small poultry flocks healthy and productive requires skilled husbandry practices. We are now offering a coccidiosis vaccine to help you manage your flock. Coccidia are common protozoan parasites. They are present in almost all chicken yards and can lay dormant for years until chickens are introduced. Heavy infections of coccidia cause serious disease and may kill many chickens. Chickens of all ages can come down with coccidiosis, but 4- to 16-week-old chickens are most commonly affected. Wet litter, poor nutrition and concurrent diseases are the most common triggers of coccidiosis. We do vaccinations here at the hatchery, because it is best to vaccinate chicks at 1-3 days of age. A successful vaccination will provide long-lasting immunity.
PLEASE READ: To reduce the threat of coccidiosis you should either: 1) Have us vaccinate your birds and not use medicated feed. OR 2) Use a medicated feed containing a coccidiostat. ORGANIC GROWERS: Vaccinations are in compliance with the NOP/USDA organic standards. You should verify with your certifying agency before having us vaccinate your chicks.
What is Marek's Disease and how do I control the disease?
Mareks is a widespread disease affecting domestic chickens in all sections of the world. It is characterized by lesions affecting the nervous system, organs, and other tissues. Young chickens under 16 weeks of age are most susceptible. There is no treatment for Mareks once the birds are infected. Chicks must be vaccinated as close to the time of hatch as possible for the vaccine to be effective. We vaccinate all of our own breeding stock and strongly feel that you should do the same. Vaccinating your birds for Marek's is another appropriate step in strong poultry management. Dont take any chances. Let us vaccinate your chicks prior to shipment of your order. Dont forget to mark your order blank in the appropriate location for vaccination.