HHS boosts funding for avian flu response

Jan 06, 2025
By Farms.com

HHS allocates $306 million to combat avian flu spread in the US

The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has allocated $306 million to enhance the country's response to the H5N1 avian flu.

According to HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, while the risk to humans is low, preparation is vital. "These investments are critical to continuing our disease surveillance, laboratory testing, and monitoring efforts alongside our partners at USDA," he said.

The funding includes $183 million for regional, state, and local preparedness. This includes hospital readiness and training programs aimed at managing emerging pathogens like avian flu.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will receive $111 million to monitor exposed individuals and boost diagnostic kit distribution. Another $11 million is set aside for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to support research on H5N1 countermeasures.

In recent developments, the USDA confirmed avian flu outbreaks in Spartanburg County, South Carolina, and Miner County, South Dakota, affecting gamebird and poultry flocks.

Additionally, Pennsylvania officials suspect avian flu in the deaths of 200 snow geese in Northampton and Lehigh counties, with more wild bird warnings issued in Ohio, Illinois, and other states.

Efforts continue to track and contain the virus in both domestic and wild bird populations. For more information, visit USDA APHIS.

Video: Five Confirmed New World Screwworm Cases Raise Alarm for Livestock and Pet Owners

Pat Hoffmann, Swine Technical Consultant at Elanco Animal Health tells us about the impact of New World Screwworm. The emergence of New World screwworm in the U.S. creates a threat for veterinarians, livestock producers and pet owners that has not been seen north of the Florida Keys since the fly was eradicated from the United States more than 50 years ago. New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) larvae feed on living tissue and can affect a wide range of warm-blooded animals, including livestock, companion animals, wildlife, and even humans.
“New World screwworm could have a devastating impact on animal health, welfare, and producer livelihoods,” said Jeff Simmons, President and CEO, Elanco Animal Health. “We want to thank the FDA, EPA and USDA, for all their work to prepare for this threat. We’re committed to supporting our customers during this challenging time by delivering innovation, scientific expertise, and available resources to help treat New World screwworm and support the health and well-being of animals.”
Elanco is working alongside the U.S. animal health industry to help them fight against this parasite, offering a portfolio of options for pets and livestock that can help treat New World screwworm larvae infestations.