Coccidiosis

One of the most serious problems that frequently affects chicks is coccidiosis.  I have recently watched a friend battle this disease in her hatches, and it has been devastating to watch so many chicks die, even with her devoted care. 

I couldn't help but think that my broody hen may be building resistantance to this illness in her chicks with her plan to get them out of the nest early.  I don't know a thing about a chick's immune system, but if they carry some antibodies at birth like humans, early exposure in the pen while they are building their immune system might make them stronger. 

This is the best article I have seen on coccidiosis, although I would never go to the extremes that the author suggests to build resistance.  In addition, I am allergic to sulfa drugs.  I would probably make myself sick.
http://www.thecozynest.com/understanding_coccidiosis.htm