Like you Joe, I wouldn't have my hair on fire about Marek's. Everyone knows it's ubiquitous (read: "it's everywhere") and the window for infection is when birds are still chicks. Presumably all the birds at show will have already been exposed to Marek's if they are at all exposed to the wild bird population. If it were as bad as all that, Marek's would be a reportable disease like Newcastle's and others. I agree, keep your birds in good conditions so that they can have strong immune systems and you have no worries. I will say that if I were to purchase anything at a show I would quarantine for a month just to see if some unscrupulous jerk gave a bird a big honking dose of antibiotics to mask something serious so they could unload it on the unsuspecting. It's happened folks, so buyer beware.
Marek's is present but it's not as wide spread as you suggest...it's not in Walmart..probably not in your feed stores......and a bird can be infected at any stage in life.....I know this for a fact....because I've personally witnessed it. Cut the crap regarding the window if infection! I've witnessed birds from 4 days only too 2 years old die from it....they fall apart.....the majority dying between 4 and 7 months of age. If they do over come it, they remain carriers and often die due to internal lesions....they usually become lethargic before that happens.
That for sure is your presumption. What will actually happen will be potential direct carriers exposing other fowl....that in itself shows ignorance and extreme disrespect to fellow fanciers!
But as you said...good health will help.....thanks for your input
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