INDICATIONS

• Prevention of Pox in Pigeons: The primary indication is the prevention of pigeon pox virus infection in healthy pigeons.
• Cross-Protection in Chickens: The vaccine is widely used in healthy chickens to provide protection against fowl pox. The pigeon pox virus strain is milder than the fowl pox strain, making it suitable for use in young birds while still stimulating good immunity.
• Endemic Areas/High Exposure: Vaccination is particularly recommended in areas where the virus appears regularly, on premises where fowl pox has been diagnosed in previous flocks, or in situations involving high exposure, such as shows or competitions.
• Specific Age Groups: The vaccine is generally indicated for use in healthy young birds:
  • Pigeons: Typically from 4 to 8 weeks of age or older. Adult pigeons may receive booster vaccinations annually, often before the mating season, shows, or competitions.
  • Chickens: Typically for chickens between 6 and 18 weeks of age, but at least four weeks prior to the start of egg lay. 

Target Age & Timing

• Young Pigeons: Recommended for vaccination starting between 4 and 16 weeks of age. Some protocols suggest waiting until at least 6 weeks once birds are settled in their lofts.
• Adult Pigeons: Should be vaccinated 1–2 months before mating seasons, shows, or competitions to ensure peak immunity and maternal antibody transfer to offspring.
• Frequency: Annual re-vaccination is generally required to maintain immunity. 
• Application site: The vaccine is applied to the web of the wing.
• Method: Dip the double-needle applicator into the reconstituted vaccine, ensuring both needles are coated.
• Procedure: Gently stab the webbed portion of the wing, being careful to avoid feathers, muscle, bone, and large blood vessels.
• Dose: Administer 0.01 ml per bird.
• Safety: Clean the vaccination area to reduce the risk of introducing bacteria

ADMINISTRATION

• Follicle Method (Pigeons): Removal of 6–10 feathers from the lower leg or breast, followed by brushing the vaccine into the open follicles.
• Wing-Web Method (Chickens/Pigeons): Application via a two-pronged applicator pierced through the web of the wing.
• Subcutaneous Injection: Some formulations allow for injection in the neck area.