07/15/2026
PSA to our customers that have purchased RTL's, who have ordered RTL's for future deliveries and to our customers who haven't ordered from us but have their own flock of chickens! This is a message directly from Frey's.
Good afternoon,
This email is to update you on the on-going respiratory issues a few of your customers have been experiencing with their RTLs. We have reached out to our veterinarian for some professional advice, and we would appreciate if you could share with any customers that are dealing with this.
Currently, the poultry industry is dealing with aMPV (Avian Metapneumovirus) which is a highly contagious poultry virus with no known cure. This virus is not exclusive to Frey’s Hatchery birds and can be found everywhere (your barn, your neighbour’s farm, our barn), as it is easily transferable to other environments which explains why it has been reappearing throughout this season. The good news is that this is a virus that will pass after several weeks. RTLs may present some of these common symptoms: coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, nasal discharge, reduced egg production.
How to prevent or decrease the severity of aMPV?
Use good biosecurity by keeping chicken areas disinfected, clean bedding, dry feed, good ventilation, reduce visitors.
Have an isolation or quarantine area to receive incoming replacement animals which is always a good practice.
Provide clean, fresh water and a healthy diet.
How is Frey's handling RTLs for future orders?
We are administering an aMPV vaccine to our September Ready-to-Lays. Unfortunately, since this vaccine requires a 6-week program, we are unable to administer to any RTLs delivered before September.
Please note that this vaccine is NOT optional.
We stand by the poultry we offer to our customers and appreciate your understanding and continued support.
Warm regards,
Mary Jo
