Marek in fowl

Marek's disease is a highly contagious viral disease in birds and poultry, caused by a herpesvirus, Gallid herpesvirus 2. The virus spreads through dust and dander and persists in the environment for a long time, which makes infection hard to prevent completely. Young chicks are especially susceptible in the first weeks and months of life, but older, unvaccinated birds that were infected earlier may also only develop symptoms later in life.

The disease can present in several ways. In some young, recently infected birds, Marek's can cause sudden death, sometimes without clear preceding symptoms. In the neural or classic form, the virus mainly affects the nerves. This can show as an unsteady gait, weakness, signs of paralysis or even complete paralysis. A typical picture is a bird with one leg stretched forward and one leg back. Crop dilation, twisting of the neck and other nervous disorders may also occur.

In the ocular or eye form, the eyes are affected. This can lead to changes in the iris, reduced vision or even blindness. In the tumour form, tumours develop in the skin, nerves or internal organs. Birds then often show weight loss, poor condition, listlessness and general decline.

One of the most underestimated consequences of Marek's is immunosuppression. The virus also attacks the immune system, making infected birds far more susceptible to secondary infections such as worm infections, coccidiosis and respiratory infections. It is often precisely these additional problems that cause prolonged health issues or death.

There is no treatment for Marek's disease. Vaccination is therefore the only effective way to protect birds. It is best carried out as soon as possible after hatching and can be given up to around 8 weeks of age. When birds are vaccinated in time, they are protected against the disease for life.

At Neorni you can arrange this vaccination every Tuesday evening, by prior telephone appointment.