Do you recommend the Marek's Vaccination?

Yes, we do highly recommend vaccinating for Marek's Disease due to it being highly contagious between poultry and wild birds. It can also be spread from one contaminated area to another; even visitors to your coop can bring in disease directly to your birds. Marek's Disease is caused by an easily transmissible virus that can lead to organ failure, paralysis, or even sudden death. While there is no treatment or cure, having them vaccinated is a great preventative measure taken to ensure the health of your flock.

Vaccination is not a substitute for effective biosecurity and sanitation practices; bio-security is still vital to practice. A single vaccination grants lifelong immunity but is not 100% effective; about 5% of the chickens vaccinated can still get the disease. It is a good idea to have them vaccinated as it helps build up their antibodies to the disease.  

We understand if you would like to raise your birds organically and depending on your state's consideration of organic, chicks that are vaccinated within the first 2 days of life are still considered organic. However, it is always best to check with your certification agency before requesting vaccination if you plan to raise them organically. 

Marek's vaccination is available and is optional. The vaccine we use and sell covers serotype 3 (MDV3). You may choose to have us vaccinate your chicks before they leave the hatchery. To add this option, check the box for "vaccinate for Mareks" at checkout. 

You may notice some green on chicks that have been vaccinated. That is completely normal!