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Chicken Anemia Virus (CAV) is a virus that infects chickens and causes infectious anemia in poultry. This disease is immunosuppressive, chickens would be more susceptible to other infections. CAV targets the immune system, particularly the lymphoid organs, leading to aplastic anemia, reduced red blood cell production, weakened immunity, and increased vulnerability to secondary diseases.  

CAV primarily affects young chicks aged 1-3 weeks, especially those that do not receive maternal antibodies. The virus can spread vertically from the breeder to the chick, as well as horizontally through direct contact with infected birds, contaminated equipment, or drinking water. CAV is highly resistant under various environmental conditions, making proper sanitation and good farm management essential for its control.  

Clinical signs typically appear in 7-12 days post-infection, with mortality rates ranging from 5-15%, and in some acute cases, mortality may reach up to 60%. Common symptoms include lethargy, pale appearance, reduced feed intake, and stunted growth. Necropsy findings may consist of pale bone, narrow lymphoid organ atrophy, and hemorrhages in the breast and thigh muscles.  

Diagnosis of CAV is generally performed by detecting viral DNA in organs such as the thymus, spleen, or blood lymphocytes. Direct treatment for infected chickens is largely ineffective, as no specific therapy is available. Therefore, the primary focus is on prevention and disease control.  

CAV can be prevented by vaccinating breeder hens with Vaksimune CAV to ensure adequate transfer of maternal antibodies that protect chicks during the first six weeks of life. Good biosecurity practices, regular litter replacement, quarantine of new birds, and strong biosecurity measures are also recommended to reduce virus transmission.