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Some articles and publications posted to this website refer to Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health, which has since changed its name to Merck Animal Health.

Runting and stunting syndrome (RSS)

RSS is a condition that afflicts young chickens and turkeys. It is manifested by uneven growth, stunting or runting of growth, poor or abnormal feathering, lesions, diarrhea and a lack of pigmentation in the skin, feet or beak. It may be associated with several different viruses, including reoviruses.

RSS may appear suddenly and can be transmitted through the litter. In fact, diarrhea in older birds may rapidly infect the young.

When RSS is reported, it is important to tighten biosecurity procedures to reduce exposure and slow the spread of the disease. Sanitation and disinfection will reduce the burden of challenge caused by multiple infectious organisms.

Reovirus vaccines can prevent the stunting and poor feed conversion that occur with RSS associated with these infections. Once birds are severely affected, though, there is no effective treatment.