Market Broiler Management Practice Test

To ensure rapid uptake of a vaccine, how many hours should birds be deprived of water before administration begins?

1. 0

2. 1

3. 2

4. 3

The correct answer is: 1

Depriving birds of water for one hour before vaccine administration is a practice designed to enhance vaccine uptake. When water is withheld for a brief period, it encourages the birds to drink more eagerly once water becomes available, thereby increasing the likelihood that they will consume the vaccine that's mixed with the water. This strategy can be particularly effective as it helps to ensure better distribution of the vaccine throughout the flock. Longer periods of water deprivation could lead to stress and dehydration, which can negatively affect the health and performance of the birds, and may result in decreased immunity. Conversely, not withholding any water prior to vaccination may lead to less aggressive drinking behavior, potentially resulting in suboptimal vaccine uptake. Overall, a one-hour deprivation strike a balance between encouraging thirst and preventing undue stress on the birds, thus ensuring that they are more likely to consume the necessary vaccine efficiently.