USDA Explores Poultry Bird Flu Vaccination Strategy
USDA Explores Poultry Bird Flu Vaccination Plan Amid Export Concerns – June 2025
The USDA poultry bird flu vaccine plan June 2025 is under review as the U.S. Department of Agriculture considers vaccinating poultry for the first time. Officials are weighing how such a programme might affect critical export markets while aiming to protect domestic flocks.
Why It Matters
Since 2022, avian influenza has forced the culling of nearly 175 million chickens, turkeys, and other birds. This makes it the most severe animal health emergency in U.S. history. The loss of egg-laying hens pushed egg prices to record levels. Grocers rationed supplies, restaurants raised menu prices, and food manufacturers boosted imports from Turkey, Brazil, and South Korea.
To respond, the USDA committed $100 million to vaccine research and has already spent over $1 billion compensating farmers for culled flocks, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Industry and Government Action
Industry groups expect the USDA to publish a written plan by July. The department confirmed it is working with federal, state, and industry officials, while also consulting international trade partners to design the strategy.
One proposed plan from egg producers recommends initial vaccinations for baby chicks, followed by booster shots and regular flock testing. Birds testing positive would still be culled. This approach aims to reduce infection risk while maintaining confidence among global importers.
Market Impact
The debate highlights a central challenge: how to balance disease prevention with trade security. Vaccination may help stabilise domestic production, but some export markets could restrict imports from vaccinated flocks.
In conclusion, the USDA poultry bird flu vaccine plan June 2025 reflects both opportunity and risk. Success will depend on international acceptance, ongoing testing, and continued collaboration with trading partners.
Original reporting by Reuters: USDA develops potential plan to vaccinate poultry for bird flu
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