My birds get sick with respiratory signs and sudden deaths. Want a clear plan to prevent Ranikhet and Gumboro disease.
3 Answers
Ranikhet disease (Newcastle disease) and Gumboro (infectious bursal disease) are major viral killers in poultry and the main protection is timely vaccination plus strict biosecurity. Both have well established vaccination programmes that begin in the first weeks of a chick's life with boosters, but the exact schedule, vaccine type and route should be taken from your hatchery and veterinarian, since it depends on the disease pressure in your area and bird type. Beyond vaccines, control who and what enters your farm: limit visitors, disinfect footwear and equipment, keep wild birds and rodents out, and do not bring in birds from unknown sources without quarantine. Remove dead birds promptly and clean and rest the shed between batches. If you see sudden deaths, twisted necks, greenish droppings or breathing distress, contact a vet immediately.
Following the vaccination dates from my hatchery without slipping was what finally stopped the sudden death waves on my farm. I mark the dates on the wall so I never miss a booster. Skipping even one round used to cost me badly.
Resting and cleaning the shed properly between batches made a real difference for me. Earlier I would rush new chicks into a shed that still carried infection from the last lot. Now I clean, disinfect and leave it empty for a while as the vet advised, and the new batch stays healthier.