Systematic Veterinary Virology

CONTROL AND ERADICATION

• Vaccination
• Cell associated live virus or cell free Herpes virus turkey are used as vaccine to control MD. These vaccines are injected in ovo at the 17th or 18th day of embryonation or subcutaneously at hatch. The HVT do not spread horizontally; therefore missed birds will not be protected. Missed birds remain fully susceptible, leading to MDV multiplication and spread of virus into the environment in large volumes.
• Genetically engineered recombinant vaccines are available but they are currently not in commercial use
• Control
• By appropriate management practices including proper disinfection, all-in all-out policies, separation of young birds from older, genetically resistant stock and vaccination decrease incidence of disease.
• It is essential that vaccinated chicks be isolated during their first two weeks of life so that their immunity  develops before they are subjected to a severe challenge of virus. Chicks reared separately are free from the infected fluff and dust of older birds.
• Good nutrition and freedom from other diseases and parasites are necessary to maintain the flock’s health and to ensure that the birds have optimum resistance against MD infection.