Common Chicken Diseases and Their Vaccines

Common Chicken Diseases and Their Vaccines

Several diseases commonly affect chickens, and vaccines are available for many of them. Here are some key examples:

– Marek’s Disease: This viral infection causes lymphoid cancer, leading to paralysis, eye color changes, skin nodules, and internal growths. Vaccines are typically administered at one day old, but this is often impractical for small backyard flocks.

– Fowl Pox: This viral infection, spread by biting insects or fighting, presents as scabby sores (dry form) or throat plaques (wet form), hindering breathing and eating. Vaccination is often done during outbreaks or in areas with many biting insects, typically at one and three months of age.

– Infectious Laryngotracheitis (ILT): This viral infection severely affects the trachea, causing breathing difficulties and bloody coughs. Vaccination is recommended at one and three months of age.

– Infectious Bronchitis: A highly contagious respiratory disease causing respiratory distress, decreased egg production, and poor growth. Vaccines are available in live-attenuated, inactivated, recombinant, and combination forms. Often administered to chicks under 21 days old.

– Newcastle Disease: A highly contagious viral infection impacting respiratory, nervous, and digestive systems. Vaccines are often combined with Infectious Bronchitis vaccines.

– Infectious Bursal Disease (Gumboro): This viral disease primarily affects the immune system. Vaccines are available to protect against this debilitating illness.

– Coccidiosis: A parasitic disease affecting the intestinal tract. While vaccines exist, medicated feed is often used as an alternative in backyard flocks.