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HealthTrackRx develops H5N1 bird flu test

HealthTrackRx develops H5N1 bird flu test
Apr 22, 2025
By Farms.com

New H5N1 test supports public health emergency readiness

HealthTrackRx, a top provider of molecular diagnostics, has introduced a new PCR test for Avian Influenza A (H5N1) in collaboration with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This test is part of a broader emergency preparedness plan and is ready to be deployed swiftly if the bird flu outbreak worsens. 

The recent rise in H5N1 infections among poultry, livestock, and even humans has raised alarms in the healthcare sector. One human death and several hospitalizations underline the virus's ability to cross from animals to humans, posing a major health risk. 

This new test from HealthTrackRx aims to detect infections early, which is vital in preventing large-scale spread and future pandemics. Early detection helps health authorities act quickly, contain the disease, and protect both people and animals. 

“This isn’t just about developing a test—it’s about being ready to respond at scale,” said Dr. Jay Reddy, Chief Scientific Officer at HealthTrackRx. “Our national footprint and next-morning result model uniquely positions us to support public health response when timing matters most. We’re working with the CDC to ensure this test is ready to deploy should the need arise.” 

HealthTrackRx has a strong history of pandemic response. During the COVID-19 crisis, the lab was one of the first to receive Emergency Use Authorization. That experience helped them quickly develop and prepare the H5N1 assay. 

“The H5N1 assay reflects our commitment to staying ahead of emerging threats,” said Dr. Vijay Singh, Vice President of R&D. “We have the research capability, the operational capacity, and the established logistics model to help mitigate future outbreaks with speed and precision.” 

With continued collaboration and data-sharing with the CDC, HealthTrackRx is committed to protecting public health through ongoing surveillance and preparedness efforts. 

Photo Credit: gettyimages-branex


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In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show, Dr. Janice Siegford from Michigan State University discusses how precision livestock farming data can support pig health, welfare, transparency, and decision making. She explains why data ownership, privacy, consumer perception, and cost sharing must be addressed as technology becomes more common on farms. Listen now on all major platforms.

“Precision livestock farming data can support producers, veterinarians, certifiers, and consumers by enabling improved monitoring, prediction, and decision-making across the entire production system.”

Meet the guest: Dr. Janice Siegford / janice-siegford-24318839 is a Professor and Associate Chair in the Department of Animal Science at Michigan State University. Her expertise in animal welfare, neuroscience, and zoology supports research on pig behavior, stress resilience, and precision livestock farming. Her work explores early weaning, genetics, and stakeholder perspectives on technology adoption to improve pig care, health, and productivity. Learn more from Dr. Janice Siegford on The Swine it Podcast Show, available on all major platforms.