Infectious Diseases 2026

Avian Infectious Bronchitis (IB) remains one of the most significant challenges for the global poultry industry, leading to substantial economic losses through respiratory disease, kidney damage, and decreased egg production. Because the Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV) exhibits high genetic diversity and a tendency for mutation, traditional monovalent vaccines often fail to provide adequate cross-protection against emerging variants. A recent study published in the journal Vaccines evaluates a novel solution: A multi-valent inactivated vaccine designed to provide broad-spectrum protection. Researchers investigated the efficacy of a new vaccine, which contains two globally prevalent IBV strains, M41 (genotype GI-1) and 4-91 (genotype GI-13), alongside antigens for seven other poultry pathogens. The study examined the vaccine's performance in both specific pathogen-free (SPF) chickens and commercial layers and breeders under field conditions.
Birds were subjected to "homologous" challenges and "heterologous" challenges, including the QX, Q1, and Var2 variants, which are currently circulating in various regions worldwide.
The research yielded several critical insights for poultry health management:
The vaccine provided "excellent broad protection" against homologous and heterologous strains, significantly reducing the drop in egg production following viral challenge.
A long-lasting serological response was observed, with high antibody titers persisting until at least 96 to 100 weeks of age. Vaccinated birds showed minimal respiratory signs, such as coughing, compared to non-vaccinated control groups.

Note: This research was conducted by a team of scientists from MSD Animal Health, the manufacturer of the Nobilis Multriva vaccine.