Effectiveness of the immunomodulator “Azoxivet” in in ovo vaccination of broiler

Introduction. In this study, the effectiveness of the synthetic immunomodulatory drug “Azoxivet” in vaccinating broiler chickens of the “Azoxivet” cross using the in ovo method was assessed. Purpose ‒ the aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of the drug on the immune response and productive indicators of poultry when administered simultaneously with a live vaccine against infectious bursal disease (IBD) obtained from the MB-1 strain. Materials and methods. Vaccination was carried out on the 18th day of incubation, during the period of intensive development of the immune system. The drug “Azoxivet” was administered in two doses, 0.02 mg and 0.05 mg, into the amniotic cavity of the embryos. The experimental model included four groups: two experimental and two control (without the drug, but with the vaccine and without vaccination and without the drug). The birds were kept in vivarium conditions with a floor rearing system. Results, discussion. The results obtained showed the absence of statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of the main zootechnical indicators. However, in the experimental groups, there was a tendency for hatchability to increase compared to the control. Immunological monitoring showed high initial titers of specific antibodies in all groups due to maternal immunity, the highest in the pure control group. Earlier and more pronounced production of antibodies to the IBD virus was observed in the groups that received “Azoxivet”. At the same time, earlier (from day 24) and intensive production of own antibodies to the IBD virus, in contrast to the control group, where the increase was recorded only from the 28th day. More uniform antibody titers and a higher vaccination index were also established in the birds that received “Azoxivet”. Conclusion. The obtained results indicate the prospects for using the drug in vaccination schemes by the in ovo method.