Vaccination Program for Commercial Ducklings

Age

Vaccine

Route

Type

1 day

Riemerella anatipestifer

Aerosol

Live vaccinea

10–14 days

R anatipestifer

Drinking water

Live vaccinea

3 wk

R anatipestifer

SC

Bacterinb

a A live, avirulent vaccine consisting of the three major serotypes (1, 2, and 5) of R anatipestifer.

b A formalin-inactivated cell suspension of the three major serotypes (1, 2, and 5) of R anatipestifer is recommended for preventive immunization on farms where the disease is endemic or epidemic. An Escherichia coli bacterin can also be used where field challenge warrants. Ducklings should not be vaccinated within 21 days of slaughter.