For the small poultry flock owner, vaccination is generally necessary only if the birds have had disease problems in the past or could potentially be exposed to other birds (eg, at poultry shows, meat swaps, or wild bird access), or if new birds are introduced to the flock (open flock). Birds should not be vaccinated for a disease not present in their local area.
If certain diseases are a problem in a backyard poultry flock, vaccination might be recommended after veterinary consultation.
Vaccination Against Marek's Disease in Backyard Poultry
Marek's disease is present in almost every flock, and vaccination of all chickens is strongly recommended. Vaccination is inexpensive and is key for control of this disease.
Within the genus Mardivirus are three species—previously designated as serotypes—of Marek's disease virus: Gallid alphaherpesvirus 2 (serotype 1), Gallid alphaherpesvirus 3 (serotype 2), and Meleagrid alphaherpesvirus 1 (serotype 3).
Because most backyard chickens are vaccinated only for serotype 3, they might not be fully protected. In addition, vaccination does not prevent infection or shedding of the field virus.
Backyard poultry owners can purchase chicks from hatcheries and request that their chicks be vaccinated against Marek's disease with serotype 3 at hatch, or they can vaccinate their own chicks if hatched on-site.
Because the virus that causes Marek's disease is ubiquitous and is transmitted via feather dander, vaccinating birds at hatch, before they are most susceptible (at 2–7 months old), is critical to establish early immunity.
Vaccination Against Newcastle Disease in Backyard Poultry
Vaccination against Newcastle disease virus might be recommended for backyard poultry in certain geographical areas and for birds that are frequently taken to shows and exhibitions. However, the fact that commercial vaccines are sold only in large quantities in lots of 10,000-dose vials presents a challenge for small flock owners who require only small amounts (eg, < 100 doses).
If certain vaccines that might be difficult to obtain (eg, vaccines against infectious bronchitis or infectious bursal disease) are desired for specific needs, the best strategy might be to receive vaccinated chicks directly from a hatchery.
For More Information
Pitesky M. Vaccinating strategies for chicks. Chicken Whisperer Magazine.
Georgia Poultry Laboratory Network: Vaccinating My Flock. What Are My Choices?
Wallner-Pendleton E. Vaccination Guide for the Small Poultry Flock. University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service; 2005.
