The US government is introducing a new plan to tackle bird flu, shifting its approach from destroying millions of chickens to implementing stricter biosecurity measures and vaccinations.
Egg prices have soared in recent months, with the average price per dozen reaching $4.95 in January. The US Department of Agriculture predicts another 20% surge this year due to shortages caused by widespread culling of infected flocks.
The Trump administration’s new strategy aims to reduce the need for mass destruction of chickens and turkeys. Instead, it will focus on creating “better, smarter perimeter” systems around poultry farms to prevent disease spread from wild ducks and geese.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has been briefed on the plan since taking office, stating her commitment to ensuring a safe and secure food supply while also protecting Americans’ access to affordable eggs.
Industry experts acknowledge the importance of vaccinations in controlling bird flu outbreaks but express concerns over trade impacts and vaccine costs. The poultry industry will work with federal authorities to implement the new measures.
Dr. Carol Cardona, a bird flu expert, emphasizes that tighter biosecurity is crucial to prevent cross-contamination and limit outbreaks. However, she notes that precise implementation requires significant investment in on-farm worker training, farm infrastructure development, and innovative vaccine distribution methods.
As the US poultry industry continues to face challenges from bird flu, the new strategy aims to strike a balance between controlling the disease while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/trump-administration-egg-prices-shortage-bird-flu-9a0dac14ed29ecacd7f0f913d602c3aa