Salmonella Kentucky vaccine (Salmune TEK) is indicated for the active immunization of chickens to reduce mortality, clinical signs, and fecal shedding associated with Salmonellosis caused by the Salmonella Kentucky serovar.

INDICATIONS

• Reduction of Bacterial Shedding: Vaccination significantly decreases the amount and duration of Salmonella shed in the feces of infected birds, which helps lower environmental contamination.
• Food Safety and Public Health: By reducing the Salmonella load in poultry, the vaccine helps minimize the transmission of this zoonotic bacterium through the food chain to humans.
• Decreased Organ Colonization: The vaccine helps prevent the colonization and invasion of internal organs, including the intestines and ceca, by Salmonella strains.
• Broader Protection: S. Kentucky is often included in multivalent (combination) vaccines alongside other prevalent serovars like S. Enteritidis and S. Typhimurium to provide broad-spectrum protection against multiple serogroups.
• Progeny Protection: Vaccination of breeder hens can transfer protective immunity to their progeny during their first days of life

ADMINISTRATION

• Subcutaneous (SC) Injection: The most common route is under the skin in the lower part of the neck. The needle should be inserted pointing away from the head, in a straight line with the neck.
• Intramuscular (IM) Injection: Alternatively, it can be administered into the chest (breast) muscles. When using this route, the needle is typically inserted at a 45° angle to prevent accidental intraperitoneal injection.

Dosage and Frequency

• Standard Dose: A typical dose for chickens is 0.5 mL per bird.
• Timing: Vaccination can begin as early as 2 weeks of age.
• Schedule: For breeder and layer flocks, a two-dose primary course is standard, usually given with a 4 to 6-week interval between the first and booster shots. 

• Mixing: The vaccine must be shaken vigorously before and during use to ensure the emulsion is properly mixed, as it may naturally separate into layers during storage.
• Equipment: Use sterile injection equipment to prevent contamination.
• Storage: Keep the vaccine refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C and do not freeze. Once a bottle is opened, it typically must be used within 3 hours.