Q: Why is Escherichia coli vaccination so important in the layer industry?

JB: When layers die, E. coli is frequently involved maybe 90% of the time, either as a primary or secondary cause of death.¹ If you take birds to a lab, they’re probably going to find it.

Before vaccines against E. coli were introduced, in my experience in layer flocks you’d get to about 75% or 80% production and mortality would spike, up to even 0.3% a week in some situations. Nearly every bird you’d post would have E. coli peritonitis and abdominal problems. But once the vaccine was introduced, I saw the incidence really decline, almost to the point where mortality rates were normal.

Q: What are the primary advantages of using Poulvac^® E. coli in layers?

JB: Ease of use is a major strength. Anything mass-applied is so much easier for the producer. It can effectively be administered in the water or as a spray. It’s a very versatile vaccine.

In terms of the impact in flocks, we’ve seen much better feed conversion and general livability when faced with all the various challenges, plus reductions in condemnations.² I’ve seen mortality in flocks return close to normal through early lay.

Q: Are there any specific examples of field performance you can highlight?

JB: I first learned about Poulvac E. coli back when I was working for a breeding company and admit I was skeptical initially. But I recommended it to a customer who was having major problems with E. coli, and within 3 weeks of vaccinating, their mortality was down to normal, despite their using it later in grow.

Continue reading the full interview on Poultry Health Today