By Jamie Martin
A bipartisan group of U.S. Senators, led by Senator Amy Klobuchar, is urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to take stronger measures to combat the ongoing outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
The outbreak, now in its fourth year, has severely impacted poultry and dairy farms, leading to the depopulation of over 136 million birds and raising concerns about farm worker infections.
In a letter to Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, the Senators emphasized the urgency of addressing the crisis. “The United States is now entering the fourth year of an outbreak of HPAI that has devastated farms, required the depopulation of more than 136 million birds on commercial poultry operations, and infected a small but growing number of farm workers. A new urgency is required from the USDA to address the evolving situation,” they wrote.
The lawmakers proposed key measures to strengthen the response, including -
- A national vaccination strategy for poultry, focusing on stockpiling vaccines, conducting field trials, and ensuring trade partners understand the need for vaccination.
- An HPAI Strategic Initiative to expand research and develop new methods for prevention, detection, and control.
- Improved movement controls for animals that pose a risk and support for states advancing in the USDA’s National Milk Testing Strategy.
The letter was signed by 16 Senators from both parties, highlighting the widespread concern about the outbreak’s impact on agriculture and food production. A companion letter was also sent by Representative Randy Feenstra in the House.
The Senators continue to push for immediate action to protect farmers, livestock, and the broader food supply chain from further disruptions caused by avian flu.
For the complete letter click here
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National