FIELD VACCINATION 3 Field Vaccination There are various ways to mass apply vaccinations to poultry in production housing. In some cases, the emphasis is on effective application with the lowest labor costs. In areas where labor is inexpensive and readily available, application strategies that maximize the immune response can be selected. Disease challenges in the production area will also factor into the type of vaccine application best suited for that area. The techniques to deliver vaccines can be used across all types of poultry production.
Considerations include the type of housing (floor, slats, cages), water systems (open, closed, hand), equipment available (backpack sprayer, handheld sprayer, etc.) and age of the birds. 3.1 Spray Vaccination with Backpack Sprayer System COBB VACCINATION MANAGEMENT GUIDE Backpack sprayers have become a popular method to mass administer live respiratory vaccines, especially to broilers. Several manufacturers offer products, and modifications can be made to agricultural sprayers. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the equipment used. Handheld sprayers are also available for smaller housing. Personnel » Always use at least two people to vaccinate.
Broilers may require up to three people for optimal vaccination. A designated vaccination crew is preferred. Before Vaccination » Spray 3.8 liters (1 gallon) of rinse water through the backpack sprayer. » Observe spray particle size and pattern. The particle size for young chicks should be 80 to 120 microns and for older birds, between 60 to 80 microns. » The flock service technician should be present for guidance if possible when a flock is vaccinated. » The sprayer must be used for vaccination only (never for pesticides, herbicides, or disinfectants). Equipment » Two to three backpack sprayers (one sprayer for each side of the house and, for large houses, a third to go through the middle).
» Wear gloves, mask and safety glasses during preparation and vaccine administration. » Vaccine storage - Insulated cooler with ice or cold packs. » Distilled water for mixing. » Gloves, mask and safety glasses. 13