What is Gumboro vaccine ?
The Gumboro vaccine, formally known as the Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD) vaccine, is a vaccine used to protect poultry, particularly chickens, from infectious bursal disease (IBD), which is also commonly referred to as Gumboro disease. Infectious bursal disease is caused by a birnavirus that primarily affects the bursa of Fabricius, an organ in the immune system of birds.
The bursa of Fabricius plays a crucial role in the development of the chicken’s immune system. Infectious bursal disease can lead to immunosuppression, affecting the bird’s ability to mount an effective immune response, and making them more susceptible to other infections.
Freeze dried IBD virus-intermed iate strain (Georgia) cultivated in primary chick embryo fibroblast cultures
derived from SPF chicken embryo
Gumboro vaccine Use
- Vaccination Timing:
- The Gumboro vaccine is typically administered to chicks at a young age. The timing of vaccination depends on the type of vaccine used and the specific conditions of the poultry farm. Live attenuated vaccines are often given early in the life of the chicks.
- Vaccination Methods:
- Drinking Water Vaccination: Live attenuated vaccines are commonly administered through the drinking water of the poultry. This method is practical for large-scale operations as it allows for the simultaneous vaccination of a large number of birds.
- Spray Vaccination: Some vaccines may be administered as a spray, where the birds are exposed to the vaccine through a fine mist. This method is also used for live attenuated vaccines.
- Injection: Inactivated vaccines may be administered by injection. This method is less common but may be used in specific situations, especially for smaller flocks.
- Vaccination Programs:
- The development of a vaccination program is done in consultation with poultry veterinarians. Factors such as the prevalence of Gumboro disease in the region, the type of poultry operation, and the specific conditions of the farm are considered when designing a vaccination schedule.
- The vaccination program may include booster shots to ensure long-term immunity. The specific schedule and frequency of vaccinations depend on the vaccine type and the recommendations of veterinary professionals.
Gumboro vaccine – Mechanism of Action and Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action:
- Antigen Presentation: The Gumboro vaccine typically contains a weakened or attenuated form of the infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) or specific viral proteins. When the vaccine is administered to chickens, these antigens are recognized by antigen-presenting cells (APCs), such as dendritic cells.
- Immune Recognition: APCs process the viral antigens and present them to T-lymphocytes (T cells) and B-lymphocytes (B cells). This process activates both the cellular and humoral arms of the immune system.
- Humoral Response: B cells are stimulated to differentiate into plasma cells, which produce antibodies specific to the infectious bursal disease virus. These antibodies circulate in the bloodstream and can neutralize the virus, preventing it from infecting host cells.
- Cellular Response: T cells, specifically cytotoxic T cells, are activated. These cells are responsible for recognizing and destroying cells infected with the virus. This cellular response is crucial for clearing the virus from the host.
- Memory Formation: The immune system “remembers” the specific antigens of the infectious bursal disease virus. If the vaccinated bird is later exposed to the actual virus, the immune system can mount a rapid and targeted response, preventing the development of the disease.
Gumboro vaccine – Side-effects
- Mild Transient Signs:
- After vaccination, some birds may exhibit mild, transient signs such as lethargy, reduced feed intake, or a slight drop in egg production. These signs are usually short-lived and resolve on their own.
- Immunosuppression:
- There is a theoretical risk of immunosuppression, especially when using live attenuated vaccines. This can make birds more susceptible to other infections during the immediate post-vaccination period.
- Vaccine Reaction:
- In some cases, birds may show a vaccine reaction, which could manifest as swelling at the site of injection or discomfort. This is more commonly associated with injectable vaccines.
