By Jamie Martin
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is taking significant steps by allocating $306 million to enhance the nation's defense against the H5N1 avian flu.
HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra emphasizes the low risk to humans but stresses the necessity for preparedness. "These investments are critical to continuing our disease surveillance, laboratory testing, and monitoring efforts alongside our partners at USDA," he states.
A substantial portion of this funding, $183 million, will support state and local preparedness, improving hospital readiness and training for emerging pathogens specifically targeting avian flu.
Another $111 million will enable the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to monitor exposed individuals more effectively and enhance diagnostic testing capabilities. The National Institutes of Health will utilize the remaining $11 million for research on virus countermeasures.
Recent reports from the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service confirm new poultry outbreaks in South Carolina and South Dakota, marking continued vigilance in tracking the virus's spread.
Additionally, avian flu is suspected in the recent die-off of around 200 snow geese in Pennsylvania, with official confirmation pending.
This strategic funding aims to mitigate the impact on poultry industries and prevent potential transmission to humans, ensuring robust national readiness against the avian flu threat.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National