Embrex pioneered in ovo vaccination, an innovative approach that revolutionized disease prevention in chickens. Since its commercial introduction in 1992, Embrex, now part of Zoetis Animal Health Global Poultry, has maintained its position as a leading provider of this technology, significantly improving flock well-being and production efficiency.
Understanding In Ovo Vaccination
In ovo vaccination delivers vaccines to a developing embryo inside a fertile egg before it hatches. This technique provides early protection against various diseases, stimulating the chick’s immune system while still in the egg. This early intervention helps establish immunity before chicks are exposed to pathogens in the hatchery or on the farm.
The timing of vaccine administration is important for efficacy and embryo safety. In broiler and turkey eggs, vaccination typically occurs during the late stage of embryonic development, specifically between day 17.5 and day 19.25 of the 21-day incubation period. At this stage, the embryo’s immune organs are maturing, allowing for a more robust response to the vaccine. Vaccines are generally delivered into the amniotic fluid or directly into the embryo’s body, optimal sites for absorption and immune stimulation.
How In Ovo Technology Works
In ovo vaccination relies on advanced automated systems designed for precision and consistency. These systems handle thousands of eggs per hour, ensuring each egg receives an accurate vaccine dose. Eggs are typically placed into the system in incubation flats, where they are precisely aligned for injection.
A dual-needle system is commonly employed: a punch needle creates a hygienic opening in the eggshell, followed by an inner needle that delivers a preset vaccine volume. This two-step process minimizes damage to the embryo and reduces the risk of cross-contamination between eggs. Some technologies also incorporate features like real-time monitoring of vaccination and sanitation pathways for each needle, along with automated needle cleaning after every injection.
Advantages for Poultry Health and Industry
In ovo vaccination improves poultry health and streamlines industry operations. Chicks develop early immunity against diseases like Marek’s disease, Newcastle disease, and infectious bursal disease, reducing vulnerability to pathogens shortly after hatching. This early protection improves overall flock health and reduces mortality rates.
The automated nature of in ovo vaccination significantly reduces the need for manual handling of newly hatched chicks, minimizing stress on the birds. This approach enhances producer efficiency by reducing labor costs and human error associated with post-hatch vaccination. The precise and uniform delivery of vaccines to each embryo ensures consistent immune protection across the flock.
Addressing Concerns and Safety
In ovo vaccination technologies undergo extensive testing and regulatory oversight to ensure safety for chickens and human consumption. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) plays a role in regulating poultry vaccines. Regulatory bodies evaluate vaccine efficacy and safety, including potential impacts on hatchability or growth.
When properly administered, in ovo vaccination has minimal adverse effects on hatchability or chick quality. The vaccines used are typically inactivated or non-replicating, meaning they do not multiply in the bird or leave harmful residues. The U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) can identify vaccine strains in raw poultry products, and policies ensure these strains are not considered foodborne pathogens.