WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) led more than 20 of their colleagues in writing a letter to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, urging the USDA to move forward with its avian influenza vaccine strategy for poultry while encouraging a comprehensive, science-based approach.
“We are writing to encourage the U.S. Department of Agriculture to continue prioritizing an avian flu vaccine strategy that takes into account a comprehensive, science-based approach for the potential vaccination of poultry and livestock that have been impacted by this disease,” the senators wrote in the letter. “Avian flu infections have already begun to increase as winter approaches, and it is essential that USDA take renewed action to address and fight this virus.”
Since the outbreak began in 2022, the virus has impacted more than 184 million birds, including more than 21 million turkeys, and 1,083 dairy herds.
“The USDA recently noted that a draft proposal of an avian flu vaccine strategy for poultry was currently under review, and we strongly urge the Department to advance this review process with speed and diligence, while allowing for proactive consultation with affected stakeholders,” the senators continued. “Any finalized vaccine strategy must take into account feedback from animal health stakeholders, industry experts, and be grounded in sound science. It must also be comprehensive in scope, addressing all impacted species, including turkeys and egg-laying hens. Once a vaccine is developed and USDA has confirmed its safety and efficacy, a vaccine strategy for dairy cattle should also be prioritized.”
Poultry industry reaction
Multiple associations and federations, including the National Turkey Federation, United Egg Producers and Minnesota Turkey Growers’ Association, have supported the senators push for an HPAI poultry vaccine strategy.
“The National Turkey Federation commends Senators Amy Klobuchar and Mike Rounds for their bipartisan leadership in elevating the need for a credible, science-driven approach to highly pathogenic avian influenza vaccination,” Leslee Oden, NTF president and CEO, said. “NTF supports USDA developing a vaccination strategy as one component of a broader approach to HPAI, and we believe that plan should be shaped through meaningful stakeholder input and accompanied by active engagement with trading partners to modernize international standards and ensure trade continuity. We look forward to continuing our work with USDA, members of Congress and industry partners to strengthen animal health, ensure food affordability and maintain access to key exports.”
“American egg farmers genuinely appreciate the bipartisan Senate cooperation in support of farmers’ fight against HPAI,” Chad Gregory, UEP president and CEO, said. “Like everyone, we value food affordability, and we believe that a successful trade strategy that leads to a viable vaccine strategy is the right long-term solution. Consumers love eggs, and we all benefit from the stability of a market where outbreaks of HPAI can be contained.”
“Minnesota’s turkey growers remain committed to implementing science-based solutions that strengthen flock health while protecting our ability to compete in global markets,” Ashley Kohls, MTGA executive director, added. “We support the development of an effective and collaborative HPAI vaccine strategy that does not create negative trade impacts to our industry and adds meaningful tools to our disease-response toolkit. We are grateful to Senator Klobuchar for her continued leadership in pursuing practical, science-driven options to help producers prevent and combat HPAI. Her support ensures Minnesota’s turkey farmers can remain resilient, safeguard flock health, and protect the strong export relationships vital to our state’s agricultural economy.”
The senators concluded the letter by praising the USDA for its persistent efforts in combating the spread of bird flu. They emphasized that stakeholders in the poultry industry, including the American public, depend on accurate and timely action to protect animal health and food quality. A detailed and inclusive vaccine plan will help the industry in this fight against HPAI.
