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The White House Contemplates Inoculating Chickens Against Avian Influenza
A persistent avian flu outbreak is causing the price surge of eggs and poultry.
By the later part of 2022, various poultry farms across the United States began experiencing a sudden influx of avian flu. While the likelihood of bird-to-human transmission is minimal according to CDC experts, the main issue lies in the escalated culling of birds to contain the spread of infection. Consequently, this has resulted in a significant spike in the prices of eggs and poultry items over recent months, with a dozen eggs fetching prices as high as $4.82 by January.
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To combat the ongoing epidemic and mitigate the surging poultry costs, the White House is currently exploring the possibility of a widespread immunization campaign for the nation’s fowls. The CDC has initiated trials to identify a potential vaccine candidate, with several major pharmaceutical firms contributing, along with the Agricultural Research Service working on an internal solution.
Reports suggest that the Biden administration is contemplating a large-scale vaccination drive for poultry to counter avian flu outbreaks that have resulted in the deaths of millions of chickens and the hike in egg prices. https://t.co/y8tqZCAyah
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) March 7, 2023
“In situations where outbreaks could potentially impact the security and safety of the United States’ food supply, a range of measures are routinely evaluated,” remarked a spokesperson from the White House National Security Council in a statement on Monday. “Our current focus is on promoting and strengthening impactful biosafety practices and protocols.”
If the White House proceeds with the initiative, experts estimate that a viable avian flu vaccine candidate could be available as early as May.