Through ChileCarne’s coordination, 7,000 hens owned by small-scale farmers in Melipilla, participating in the Prodesal local development program, were vaccinated on October 8 at the Municipality of Melipilla. The vaccination was made possible by a donation of 7,000 doses of a trivalent inactivated vaccine from MSD Laboratory. This initiative, part of ChileCarne’s Wetlands Biosecurity Program, protects hens against infectious bronchitis, Newcastle disease, and egg drop syndrome.
The vaccination campaign took place on October 8 at the Municipality of Melipilla, following a request for support by Prodesal Melipilla, as small-scale farmers typically raise only a few hens, making the purchase of large vaccine vials impractical and costly. To address this, ChileCarne coordinated with MSD Laboratory to provide the necessary doses, helping small farmers access essential vaccines. This program is a vital biosecurity measure for small poultry farmers who often face high costs and minimum quantity constraints when purchasing vaccines.
ChileCarne also conducted a training workshop for monitors from the Agricultural Development Institute (INDAP), who oversee vaccination efforts for backyard hens. The training ensured the proper intramuscular administration of the vaccine, equipping farmers with the tools needed to protect their poultry effectively.
This effort extended beyond poultry farmers near wetland areas to other Prodesal beneficiaries via INDAP, reaching a broader group of backyard farmers. Approximately 80 participants benefitted from the initiative, which has greatly enhanced biosecurity measures on their farms.
Carolina Larraín, Head of Poultry Health at ChileCarne, emphasized the significance of this effort: “We recognized that many small producers struggle to access vaccines due to their large minimum purchase quantities. Through this donation and training, we are addressing that challenge and supporting animal health and safety in these communities.”
This initiative underscores ChileCarne’s commitment to improving poultry biosecurity and supporting small-scale farmers, providing them with the resources they need to manage their livestock’s health challenges effectively.
