A major hatchery producing day-old laying hen chicks has recently been under restriction following a confirmed Salmonella Typhimurium outbreak.

The affected hatchery has had to cease production to undergo a rigorous Cleaning and Disinfection (C&D) protocol. Unfortunately, the impact has already reached farm level, with multiple sites having received chicks from this source returning positive results on chick liner samples.

This shutdown, combined with the loss of thousands of future layers, will cause a significant “gap” in pullet availability. This comes at an incredibly difficult time for an industry already grappling with a UK-wide egg shortage.

Advice for Pullet Rearers:

For those who have recently received chicks that have initially tested negative, we strongly advise conducting additional boot swab testing beyond the statutory requirements.

This extra layer of surveillance is vital to ensure the negative status of your site and to provide peace of mind before further investment in the flock.

Impact on Egg Producers: Managing Older Flocks

With fewer pullets available to replace aging birds, many producers will need to keep their existing flocks in production longer than originally planned.

To maintain productivity and welfare during an extended lay, we must shift our focus to

longevity management:

• Feather Cover & Environment: Protecting the integrity of the feathering to assist with thermoregulation and bird comfort.

• Parasite & Disease Control: vigilant monitoring for red mite and worms, alongside robust infectious disease protocols—including considering the role of in-lay vaccinations.

• Egg Quality & Size: nutritional adjustments and mineral supplementation are essential to maintain shell strength and manage egg size appropriately as the birds age, ensuring the highest percentage of Grade A eggs.

This disruption will be felt across the entire sector, from producers to packing stations and supporting industries. Our team is here to support you through this period with tailored veterinary advice and intensified monitoring.

Please contact the practice to discuss your flock’s specific testing schedule or longevity management plan.