BROILER DISEASES AND VACCINATION.

COCCIDIOSIS Coccidiosis vaccines are often used in poultry raised without antibiotics, as well as in conventional production systems that need to rest in-feed anticoccidials and restore their efficacy. The vaccines tend to be used in summer months, when coccidiosis pressure subsides with increased ventilation. Producers then switch back to ionophores or synthetic anticoccidials. In the US, broiler operations have the option of administering coccidiosis vaccine in ovo or on day 1 as a hatchery spray. According to Cookson, the choice hinges on company philosophy, production history and management preferences. “The challenge with coccidiosis vaccine is getting good, uniform delivery of the vaccinal oocysts that stimulate the bird’s natural immune system,” Keck says. “Zoetis research with alternative delivery systems has shown great potential for helping improve vaccine and flock performance.” He points out that the first round of coccidial vaccination is a transition period for most growers as birds often face both a field and vaccination challenge. “Because vaccines may initially cause short-term intestinal disruption and loss in performance, they are usually more practical and cost-effective to use in medium to large birds that have more time to make up for lost weight,” he says. E. COLI E. coli has become more prevalent in broiler operations that have discontinued antibiotics in the hatchery. In addition, cool, wet weather increases the incidence of secondary E. coli infections due to respiratory challenges from IBV, ILT and ND. E. coli can also occur as a primary disease. As a day-of-age spray, E. coli vaccination is gaining acceptance for its ability to help decrease mortality, particularly in large birds, Keck says. Read more here;http://poultryhealthtoday.com/broiler-vaccines-more-diseases-more-decisions/