Marek's (HVT) Disease Vaccination Kit

Marek's (HVT) Disease Vaccination Kit

Marek's disease is caused by a virus and can lead to organ failure, progressive paralysis, and rapid death. There is not a treatment for affected birds, however, you can vaccinate your own day-old chicks at home to protect against this disease.

Meyer Hatchery recommends vaccinating your day-old chicks 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. The vaccine we use and sell covers serotype 3 (MDV3).

Check out our Help Desk Article to read more about Marek's Disease and considerations to decide if you should vaccinate your flock.

Directions: Give subcutaneously only to healthy one-day-old chicks only, to aid in the prevention of signs and lesions of virulent Marek's disease.

All vaccines should be refrigerated upon arrival and have a long shelf life when stored properly. Rehydrate 1,000 dose vial with 200mL of diluent to prepare 1,000 doses. Must use within 1 hour of mixing. Do not save any vaccine that has been rehydrated. Burn vaccine containers and all unused contents. More information and manufacturer's directions here.

Please note Meyer Hatchery's vaccine policy: Vaccines are shipped in well-insulated packaging and an ice pack(s) may be included depending on the weather. Please make arrangements to be home when your vaccines arrive as they must be refrigerated immediately. Vaccines will remain cool for up to 24 hours even during the hot summer months. Ice packs may thaw during transit and this is not indicative of the temperature inside the cooler or the vaccine. After 24 hours, the package can warm up quickly, especially if sitting outside on a hot porch even for a couple of hours. Vaccines are shipped overnight FedEx or UPS only. Meyer Hatchery is not responsible for carrier errors, weather, or delays. Meyer Hatchery will not accept returns, or issue a refund or credit for vaccines for any reason. Read more information about our Vaccination Kits and how they are shipped.

Kit includes:

• Vaccine
• Diluent
• 26-gauge needle (used for mixing NOT administering)
• 1.0 ml syringe

Not included but required:

• For vaccination, an automatic syringe with 22- to 20-gauge needles, 3/8-inch to 1/2-inch in length, is recommended. Make certain that all equipment is sterilized and change needles frequently.