Unvaccinated Chicks for Backyard Flocks

Most hatcheries vaccinate for Marek's disease as an option. You can usually decline it.

Updated Oct 20, 2026. Edited by: Ilyass Ben Hakim.

Where to buy

Live chicks come from hatcheries, spring farm stores and local breeders. Mail order hatcheries list vaccination as a checkout option. Leave it unticked to get unvaccinated chicks.

Amazon does not sell live chicks. The links above cover brooder gear and hatchery searches.

Professional insight

Poultry vets ask about flock history before skipping Marek's vaccine. Exposure risk decides the choice.

Vaccine works only if given right after hatch.
Vaccinated birds still carry Marek's virus if exposed.
Ducks and geese do not need Marek's vaccine.
Ask whether the breeder flock is tested for pullorum.

Check the label

Order confirmation shows Marek's vaccine as declined.
Hatch date and ship date match your brooder setup.
Breed and sex, such as pullet, cockerel or straight run.
Hatchery participates in NPIP or a national testing plan.
Minimum order count and any small order fee.
Live arrival guarantee terms and claim window.
Shipping box marked live birds with a contact phone number.

0 of 7 checked

Before you buy

Check town rules on keeping poultry and roosters.
Set up the brooder and heat source a day early.
Plan for a full order, as many hatcheries require 25 chicks.
Keep new chicks apart from any older birds.
Know that vaccination fees are often non refundable.

Vaccinating chicks for Marek's

Vaccinated versus unvaccinated chicks
Point	Vaccinated	Unvaccinated
Marek's tumors and paralysis	Greatly reduced risk	Full risk if exposed
Virus shedding if exposed	Still possible	Possible
Best fit	Mixed or existing flocks	Closed flocks, organic plans

Safe use

Wash hands with soap after touching chicks or bedding.
Do not kiss or snuggle chicks near your face.
Keep chicks out of kitchens and eating areas.
Children under 5 should not handle live poultry.

Common questions

Is it legal to buy unvaccinated chicks?: In the US, Marek's vaccine is optional at most hatcheries. Rules differ by country, so check locally.
Can I vaccinate chicks myself later?: The vaccine works best on day one. Ask a vet before trying it at home.
Do feed store chicks come vaccinated?: Some do and some do not. Ask the store which hatchery supplied them.