Written by Adeboye Prince Adetu What is the Job of the ND + IB Vaccine? The ND + IB vaccine is a combination vaccine that protects birds against two major and highly contagious viral diseases: 1. ND (Newcastle Disease): A severe, often fatal disease that affects the respiratory, nervous, and digestive systems. It can cause high mortality in a flock. 2. IB (Infectious Bronchitis): A virus that primarily targets the respiratory system and, in laying hens, the reproductive tract. It can cause kidney damage in some strains. The "job" or purpose of this vaccine is to safely expose the bird's immune system to weakened or inactivated forms of these viruses. This allows the bird to develop antibodies and cellular immunity without getting sick, so it is prepared to fight off a real infection in the future. Is it Only for Layers? No, it is not only for layers. While it is critically important for layers, it is also a core vaccine for broilers. Here’s why it's used in both: · In Layers and Breeders: The consequences of IB are especially devastating. If a layer gets IB, even if she survives, it can permanently damage her oviduct. This leads to: · False layers: Hens that look healthy but lay no eggs. · Internal laying: Eggs are laid inside the abdominal cavity. · Poor egg quality: Thin shells, misshapen eggs, and watery egg whites. · A sharp drop in production. For breeders, the disease can also affect fertility and hatchability. ND protection is vital to prevent catastrophic flock mortality. · In Broilers: While broilers don't lay eggs, they are still highly susceptible to both viruses. · Respiratory Protection: Both ND and IB are serious respiratory diseases. In broilers, which are grown in high densities, a respiratory outbreak can spread quickly, causing sickness, poor growth, and mortality. · Economic Losses: Even if they don't die, sick broilers have something called "Poor Feed Conversion." This means they eat feed but don't convert it efficiently into body weight, costing the farmer money. · Condemnation at Processing: Severe respiratory infections can lead to airsacculitis (inflammation of the air sacs), which results in carcasses being condemned (thrown out) at the processing plant. Effect on Broilers: Is it Bad? When used correctly, the ND+IB vaccine does not have a bad effect on broilers; it is essential for their health and productivity. However, there is a very important consideration: the temporary vaccine reaction. · What Happens: Live vaccines (the most common type given in water or spray) cause a very mild, controlled infection in the respiratory tract. For a few days (typically 3-5 days) after vaccination, you might notice mild respiratory signs like slight sneezing, coughing, or watery eyes. · This is Normal: This is a sign that the vaccine is working and the bird's immune system is responding. It is a temporary and minor effect. · When it Can Become a Problem: The "bad effect" people worry about happens if this normal vaccine reaction is mismanaged. · Secondary Bacterial Infections: If the birds are stressed, have poor ventilation, or are exposed to other pathogens (like E. coli), the temporary stress from the vaccine reaction can allow a secondary bacterial infection to take hold. This can lead to a more severe respiratory disease, which is what farmers want to avoid. Key Takeaways: 1. Not Just for Layers: The ND+IB vaccine is a standard, essential vaccine for both broilers and layers. 2. Purpose: To protect against two devastating viral diseases that cause respiratory illness, mortality, and economic loss. 3. Effect on Broilers: It is beneficial, not bad. The mild, temporary vaccine reaction is a normal part of the process and is far less dangerous than a full-blown field outbreak of Newcastle Disease or Infectious Bronchitis. 4. Management is Key: To minimize any negative impact from the vaccine reaction, ensure excellent: · Ventilation · Brooding temperature · Litter quality · Overall bird comfort Always follow the advice of your veterinarian or the vaccination program designed for your specific farm and region. They will recommend the right vaccine strains and the correct timing for your broilers.