Immunization of turkey breeder hens against fowl cholera by combined oral and wing-web administration of attenuated (CU) pasteurella multocida.

Turkey breeder candidates were exposed to attenuated Pasteurella multocida (Clemson University strain) via both mouth (one or three times) and wing-web stick (one or two times). Significant protection lasting to 25-30 weeks post-vaccination was conferred under such immunization programs. The best protection with the fewest adverse effects of vaccination was established when orally vaccinated turkeys were subsequently vaccinated via wing-web at 20 and 25 weeks of age. High doses of attenuated P. multocida via wing-web produced lameness (synovitis and osteomyelitis) and severe wing lesions in growing turkeys.