What is Marek’s and why get the shot for my Chicks?

Marek’s Disease is by far one of the most common illnesses in small flocks and not treatable once the clinical signs have begun.

​Marek’s disease (‘MD’ or ‘fowl paralysis’) is a very common disease of chickens caused by a herpes virus.

These vaccines were developed in the late 60’s and have been well proven. With that being said, they are not 100% effective.

The vaccine is typically administered to day-old chicks, both broilers and layers, below the skin of the breast if you choose to have your chicks receive it..

Chickens are the main species affected, although the disease occurs rarely in some other types of birds.

Young birds are most susceptible to infection. Most deaths from Marek’s disease occur between 8 and 20 weeks of age, although in some cases the disease may be seen in birds as young as 3-4 weeks of age or as old as one year of age.

There is no current treatment for Marek’s disease, but many birds do survive the illness and remain carriers of the disease for the remainder of their lives. If you suspect one of your chickens has contracted Marek’s disease, it’s best to isolate the infected bird from your flock as soon as possible to avoid the spread of the disease to other birds.