Integrated IBV control: Vaccination, monitoring and prevention
Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) remains one of the most economically damaging diseases in modern poultry production. Affecting both broilers and layers, IBV is highly contagious and difficult to control due to its rapid evolution and interaction with other respiratory pathogens.
Ceva’s integrated IB solution, which is centered around broad-spectrum vaccines, optimised hatchery vaccination technology, and robust monitoring programs, aims to address these challenges through a comprehensive and scientifically validated approach.
IBV epidemiology and its evolutionary challenge
IBV shows strong genetic variability, especially in the S1 gene, which promotes rapid mutation and recombination. This drives variability in circulating strains and the continual emergence of new variants. Demonstrating documented cross-protection across this broad spectrum is therefore essential.
Field surveillance highlights the complexity of IBV circulation. Frequently co-infections were documented with IBV correlated to other agents as Mycoplasma spp., E. coli, ILTV, NDV, and avian influenza strains.
The integrated IB control concept
There is a holistic approach based on 3 pillars:
1. Vaccination quality and simplification
Ensuring homogeneous protection from day 1 through high-precision hatchery vaccination systems (e.g., Desvac sprayers with flat nozzle technology) that improve spray coverage, droplet size uniformity, and vaccine‑take.
2. Disease control
Broad-spectrum cross‑protection against multiple genotypes, supported by data management and epidemiological monitoring.
3. Disease prevention
Reducing virus shedding and environmental pressure through robust early-life immunity.
This integrated system aligns with modern poultry production models that require consistent, scalable, and replicable IB control strategies.
The role of hatchery vaccination – it all starts from the hatchery
High-quality day‑old vaccination is essential for optimal IB control. And this technology focuses on:
- Crate coverage
- Droplet homogeneity
- Proper droplet size
These factors are critical to achieving high vaccine‑take, as illustrated in field monitoring.
Conclusion: Integration as the new standard
As poultry production systems intensify globally, disease challenges such as IBV will continue to evolve. Fragmented approaches are no longer sufficient.
IBV control demands a comprehensive, scientifically validated strategy. An integrated IB solution – combining smart combination of vaccines, hatchery vaccination technology, and data-driven monitoring – provides:
- Early and long-lasting immunity
- Broad genotype cross-protection
- Significant reduction in virus shedding and environmental pressure
- Reduced transmission of virus
For producers and integrators, the message is clear: effective IB control starts early, relies on precision, and succeeds through integration.
