Fowl pox vaccines
Fowl pox is a slow-spreading viral disease of chickens caused by an avipoxvirus, carried by mosquitoes and by contact. The dry form causes scabs on the comb, wattles and face; the wet form causes yellow lesions in the mouth and windpipe that can suffocate birds. A single wing-web vaccination gives long-lasting protection.
Signs to watch for
- Wart-like scabs on comb, wattles, eyelids and face (dry pox)
- Yellow, cheesy patches in mouth and throat; difficulty breathing (wet pox)
- Reduced feed intake and egg production
Which birds are at risk?
Growing birds, layers and breeders; most common in mosquito seasons.
How vaccination protects your flock
Live fowl pox vaccine is applied by wing-web puncture with a special applicator, usually during rearing. About 7–10 days later, check a sample of birds for a small swelling or scab at the site ('take') to confirm successful vaccination. Mosquito control helps reduce spread.
Fowl Pox vaccines from Shiv Sales
Live attenuated vaccine giving long-lasting immunity against pox virus, administered by wing-web puncture.
Fowl Pox: common questions
How do I know fowl pox vaccination worked?
Check 7–10 days after vaccination for a small swelling or scab at the wing-web site in most birds. No 'take' means the dose was not delivered or the vaccine had lost potency.
How does fowl pox spread?
Mainly through mosquito bites and through contact with scabs from infected birds.
Can vaccinated birds still get pox?
Rarely, if vaccination was missed, applied incorrectly or given after infection had started.
Related guide
Why vaccines fail — and how to prevent it
When a vaccinated flock gets sick, the vaccine itself is rarely the problem. Most failures come from what happens between the fridge and the bird.
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.