Bird flu continues to spread in the United States, with nearly 70 people infected and one death reported since April. While a vaccine is available, federal officials have not yet released it due to mild illnesses and lack of evidence for human-to-human transmission. However, health experts say pre-emptive vaccination could prevent further transmission from animals to humans.
The US has stockpiled about 10 million doses of the H5N1 bird flu vaccine, which is effective against the D1.1 strain detected in Nevada. Health officials plan to focus on vaccinating first responders and at-risk populations, such as farmworkers who interact with poultry or cows.
In Finland, some of the country’s stockpiled vaccines have already been used for high-risk individuals, including workers in the mink industry. However, vaccine uptake has been low due to concerns about bird flu being a “high threat.” US officials are also concerned about vaccine hesitancy and its impact on preparedness against bird flu.
The Trump administration’s executive order that prohibited federal funding for COVID-19 mandates in schools may further hinder efforts to vaccinate the public. State lawmakers have begun to follow suit, stopping mass vaccination promotions. Meanwhile, health experts warn that reduced funding for key health agencies could compromise disease surveillance and pandemic preparedness.
In addition to vaccine development, antiviral medications like Tamiflu have proven effective in treating people infected with bird flu. Pharmaceutical company Moderna is also developing a bird flu vaccine and has received significant government funding to advance its experimental shot into late-stage trials.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/life/health-wellness/2025/02/18/bird-flu-spread-vaccine/78612616007