Vaccination is the introduction of a weakened or killed microbe into the body in order to stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies against that microbe, thereby preventing disease upon next exposure.¹⁷

Currently, there are two main types of poultry vaccines for avian influenza. However, since avian influenza is not commonly found in the U.S. and vaccination is not 100% effective, AI vaccination is generally not recommended. Practicing good biosecurity is your best approach to preventing avian influenza along with other prevalent diseases. The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has made the decision to not use any existing poultry vaccines to fight the current 2014-2015 AI outbreak.  For more information on the USDA's decision, visit Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza and Vaccine Use. For additional tips on vaccination, visit Vaccination and Medication Programs for Small Poultry Flocks

CDC Photo Library: Jim Gathany