Marek's Disease

Marek’s disease is a type of avian cancer caused by a virus. It primarily affects chickens between the ages of 3-25 weeks. Marek’s is highly contagious and has been found all over the United States. It is spread through inhalation of feather dander/dust and excretions from infected chickens. Marek’s can survive for months in the environment where previously infected birds were kept. It is not spread through the eggs laid by infected hens or the chicks that may result from hatching those eggs.

Common symptoms of Marek’s disease include:

• Paralysis in the legs, wings, and/or neck
• Vision impairment or irregular iris shape and/or color
• Weight and muscle loss
• Depression and lethargy
• Greenish colored diarrhea

Diagnosis of Marek’s disease is typically done by necropsy but this is not definitive due to the fact Marek’s can mimic another disease called Avian Leukosis. There is currently no known treatment for Marek’s but there is a vaccine available. The vaccine is injected in the back of a chick’s neck just under the skin within 24 hours after hatching. It’s important to remember the vaccine does not prevent chickens from acquiring or spreading Marek’s but it does help reduce the severity of clinical signs. Other methods of prevention are sanitary control procedures, strict biosecurity practices, and genetic selection (breeding for resistance). You can find more information regarding Marek's Disease here. 

The Marek’s vaccination is an optional service that we offer for both standard and bantam breed chicks. Meyer Hatchery recommends this service because the disease is easily spread. Exposed chickens will become infected with Marek's, regardless of vaccination. Vaccination only gives chickens a chance to build resistance and reduces the instances of symptoms developing. There is no cure for the disease. Meyer Hatchery is not responsible for loss or damages due to Marek’s Disease, even if your chicks were vaccinated. The vaccine we use and sell covers serotype 3 (MDV3). 

If you request the Marek’s Vaccination service and also order a Meyer Meal Maker, your Meyer Meal Maker will also be vaccinated. All free extras will be vaccinated as well.

Read more information on Marek's.