By Jamie Martin
The ongoing outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has drastically affected the US agriculture sector, impacting over 100 million birds and expanding to dairy cattle since its detection.
Poultry, particularly egg layers and turkeys, has been hardest hit, with millions of birds culled to prevent further spread. The egg industry saw record price surges due to reduced supply, and turkey production forecasts have significantly declined.
Dairy cattle have also felt the effects of HPAI, with 494 herds in 16 states reporting infections. The virus affects milk production and general herd health, prompting the USDA to enforce stringent biosecurity measures and introduce a mandatory testing and reporting regime to manage the spread.
USDA’s initiatives, supported by the Commodity Credit Corporation, include financial and technical support to affected farms, highlighting efforts to maintain the nation’s food supply integrity. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to adapt to the evolving nature of HPAI and mitigate its impact on food prices and availability.
As the USDA and the American Farm Bureau Federation continue to push for effective disease management and control strategies, the development of a vaccine for HPAI in cattle shows promise, marking a crucial step in combating this agricultural challenge.
Photo Credit: american-farm-bureau-federation
Categories: National