Whether to get more chickens as companions to a hen dying of Marek’s

[NetherLeeFarm]

I could be wrong but I don't believe the vaccine guarantees there will be no symptoms. It just drastically reduces the chance of symptoms such as tumors.

Yes, I agree! Effectiveness depends on several factors but primarily 1) the correct dose at the correct time, 2) vaccinating against the correct strain of virus, and 3) quarantine until maximum effectiveness.

Vaccines on any species can be tricky. There are several Herpes strains that cause the tumors and lesions associated with Marek's. And chickens can be carriers of more than one strain. But doing all of the above IS highly effective at keeping the virus from attacking tissues and progressing into disease. Thankfully, those with healthy backyard flocks after having Marek's can attest to it.

Hope this helps clarify things!

 

[Chasiubao]

You'll need to give newly vaccinated chicks several weeks in quarantine to build up resistance before adding them to the coop, but this is easy to do in a sterilized brooder that's separated from the coop.

How exactly does this work? Keep vaccinated chicks in a sterilized and dander-free area until their feathers fill out?

I understand that even if vaccinated and the coop is cleaned/sterilized, there’s a risk new birds could contract a strain of Marek’s.

 

[Folly's place]

So sorry for your birds! I also think that adding new birds now is a bad idea, and having both sick hens euthanized at the same time is best.
Consider ducks! they don't get Marek's disease and are also really interesting birds to have. Little ducks, big ducks, or any sizes in between...
Mary

 

[sourland]

I agree with those who feel that adding more birds to your flock is not a good idea. As @Eggcessive suggested I would try adding a mirror while both birds are still alive.

 

[Chasiubao]

appreciate everyone’s responses! I think putting them down at the same time and delaying getting new birds is the way to go.

I agree sanitizing what I can and waiting to get new vaccinated/immune birds is key. But Im not sure the 7yr period and sanitizing top soil across my yard is reasonable given that wild birds may have Marek’s. There’s no guarantee all that time and work will be effective on such a common and contagious disease.