Gumboro (IBD) vaccines
Infectious bursal disease (IBD), commonly called Gumboro, is a viral disease of young chickens that destroys the bursa of Fabricius, the organ that builds immunity. It causes sudden deaths around 3–6 weeks of age and leaves survivors with weakened immunity, so other vaccines work poorly. Vaccine timing must match the chicks' maternal antibody levels.
Signs to watch for
- Depressed birds with ruffled feathers
- Whitish, watery droppings and soiled vents
- Vent pecking
- Sharp rise in deaths for a few days
- Post-mortem: swollen or bloody bursa, bleeding in thigh and breast muscle
Which birds are at risk?
Chickens mainly between 3 and 6 weeks of age; earlier infection causes silent immunosuppression.
How vaccination protects your flock
Live intermediate or intermediate-plus vaccines are given in drinking water, with timing based on maternal antibodies (ideally checked by testing day-old chicks). Breeders receive inactivated vaccines so they pass strong antibodies to chicks. Thorough shed cleaning between flocks is essential because the virus survives for months.
Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD / Gumboro) vaccines from Shiv Sales
Protects the bursa and the bird's immune system, so every other vaccine in the programme works better. Essential for commercial operations.
Enquire about Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD / Gumboro) vaccines
Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD / Gumboro): common questions
When should Gumboro vaccine be given to broilers?
Usually in the second or third week of life, but the exact day depends on maternal antibody levels. Too early and antibodies neutralise the vaccine; too late and field virus may infect first.
What is the difference between intermediate and intermediate-plus IBD vaccines?
Intermediate-plus (sometimes called 'hot') vaccines can break through higher maternal antibody levels and suit farms with heavy field challenge, but they cause more bursal damage. The choice depends on your farm's history.
Why do vaccinated chicks still get IBD?
Common reasons are wrong timing against maternal antibodies, poor water vaccination technique, very virulent field strains, or heavy virus load in a poorly cleaned shed.
Related guide
Gumboro (IBD): the disease that weakens the whole flock
Gumboro attacks the organ that builds a chick's immunity. Even when few birds die, the damage can make every other vaccine on the farm work poorly.
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.