Pigeon Pox Vaccine — Live Attenuated Vaccine for Active Immunization Against Pigeon Pox Virus

A live attenuated vaccine for the active immunization of pigeons against pigeon pox virus — reducing the clinical signs and lesions associated with pigeon pox infection. A foundational vaccine in any serious loft's annual health program, particularly in regions where pox outbreaks are a recurring threat.

Indications

For the active immunization of pigeons to reduce the clinical signs and lesions caused by pigeon pox virus infection.

Composition

One dose contains:

• Active substance: Live pigeon pox virus, strain NJ — minimum 10⁴·⁰ EID₅₀, maximum 10⁶·⁰ EID₅₀
• Excipient: Diluent D — water for injection

EID₅₀ = 50% Egg Infectious Dose

Immunity Profile

• Onset of immunity: Within 21 days of vaccination (demonstrated by challenge study)
• Duration of immunity: At least 9 months (based on serological data)

Target Species

Pigeons.

Vaccination Schedule

• Primary vaccination: Single dose, from 4 weeks of age
• Revaccination:
  • In flocks at high risk of pigeon pox infection: every 9 months
  • In flocks with low risk of infection: annual revaccination is sufficient

Withdrawal Period

Zero days.

Directions for Use

Reconstitute the freeze-dried vaccine in Diluent D under sterile conditions immediately before use. All equipment used for reconstitution and administration must be sterile and free of any chemical disinfectant residue.

Method 1 — Subcutaneous Injection (Recommended)

• 50-dose vial: Reconstitute in 10 ml of Diluent D
• 100-dose vial: Reconstitute in 20 ml of Diluent D
• Shake well after reconstitution
• Dose per bird: 0.2 ml
• Site: Subcutaneously in the neck region
• Administer under sterile conditions using sterile syringes and needles only
• Shake the reconstituted vaccine well before — and occasionally during — administration

Method 2 — Feather Follicle Application

• 50-dose vial: Reconstitute in 5 ml of Diluent D
• 100-dose vial: Reconstitute in 10 ml of Diluent D
• Shake well after reconstitution
• Dose per bird: 0.1 ml
• Method: Pluck 10–15 feathers from the medial (inner) side of the leg, then brush the vaccine into the exposed feather follicles
• Apply to clean, dry skin
• Do NOT disinfect the skin before applying — disinfectants will inactivate the live vaccine
• Avoid bleeding from the exposed follicles, as this can cause a stronger local reaction

Storage

• Store refrigerated between 2 °C and 8 °C (36 °F – 46 °F)
• Protect from direct light
• Do not freeze
• Use the reconstituted vaccine immediately — discard any unused portion after 2 hours
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiration date