E. coli (colibacillosis) vaccines
Colibacillosis is infection with harmful strains of E. coli. It is one of the biggest causes of mortality and condemnations in poultry, usually following stress, poor air or water quality, or other infections such as IB, MG and ND. Vaccination plus good hygiene, ventilation and water quality reduce losses.
Signs to watch for
- Yolk sac infection and early chick mortality
- Airsacculitis, perihepatitis and pericarditis (fibrin on organs)
- Lameness, swollen joints, cellulitis
- Peritonitis and sudden deaths in layers
Which birds are at risk?
Chicks in the first week, growing broilers and laying hens.
How vaccination protects your flock
Inactivated and live E. coli vaccines are used in breeders, layers and some broiler programmes as directed by the manufacturer. Because E. coli often follows other infections, controlling respiratory diseases, ventilation, litter and water hygiene is equally important.
E. coli (Colibacillosis) vaccines from Shiv Sales
Inactivated vaccines that help reduce mortality and improve flock performance in commercial flocks.
E. coli (Colibacillosis): common questions
Why is E. coli so common in broilers?
E. coli is always present in the environment; it causes disease when birds are stressed or already damaged by other infections or poor air quality.
Do antibiotics replace E. coli vaccination?
No. Antibiotics should only be used on veterinary advice; prevention through vaccination, hygiene and management is more sustainable.
What is yolk sac infection?
Infection of the chick's yolk, often with E. coli, causing deaths in the first days; hatchery and egg hygiene are key.
Related guide
Biosecurity basics for every poultry farm
Vaccines protect birds that are exposed to disease. Biosecurity reduces how often they are exposed in the first place — and it costs far less than an outbreak.
Read articleCommon chicken diseases and their vaccines
Signs, affected ages and vaccines for the 12 most important poultry diseases.
Open guideOther vaccines
This page is general information for farmers and does not replace veterinary advice. Always follow the vaccine manufacturer's instructions.
Need help choosing the right vaccines?
Talk to our team for a vaccination schedule built around your flock, location and disease pressure. Consultation is free for customers.