Preparation and Serological Evaluation of an Inactivated Trivalent Oil Emulsion Vaccine for Avian Fowl Adenovirus (FAdV) Containing - 8a, 8b, and 11 Serotypes.

Abstract

Inclusion body hepatitis (IBH), caused by fowl adenovirus (FAdV) species D and E, results in significant economic losses for the poultry industry. This study aimed to evaluate the immunogenicity of an inactivated trivalent FAdV vaccine in SPF chickens, specifically assessing the effects of antigen payload, thimerosal addition, and booster immunization on antibody titers. Results demonstrated a clear dose-response, with higher antigen payloads eliciting a more prolonged immune response compared to the lowest dose. Thimerosal was confirmed to be a safe preservative, showing no negative impact on antibody development. Furthermore, a booster immunization significantly increased antibody levels, but this effect was observed only in the group receiving the high-payload vaccine, with peak titers at weeks 2 and 3 post-vaccination. These findings indicate that a high-dose trivalent inactivated FAdV vaccine, administered with a booster, is highly immunogenic and represents a promising strategy for the effective prevention and control of IBH.