HPAI Vaccine Research Shows Early Promise in Nebraska Trials

Eric Weaver with UNL joins us to share about a promising new HPAI vaccine, early test results, next steps in development, and its potential impact on the livestock industry.

LINCOLN, NEBRASKA (RFD NEWS) — A new vaccine is showing promise in combating Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), with testing currently underway in mice and dairy calves. The promising research is led by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL).

UNL Professor of Biological Sciences Eric Weaver joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to provide an update on the development.

In his interview with RFD News, Weaver discussed details of the vaccine and the results from early testing. He also outlined the next steps in the research process as work continues.

Finally, Weaver explained the potential impacts this vaccine could have on the livestock industry as it continues to battle HPAI.

Related Stories
$2 million project tests fogging system to stop the virus in poultry facilities
More than 15 million birds were affected by bird flu, but fewer outbreaks are helping bring egg prices down
Bigger flocks are rebuilding egg and poultry supply.
As spring migration ramps up, USDA officials warn farmers about rising bird flu risks and urge stronger biosecurity measures. Resources are available through APHIS to help protect livestock.
APHIS Veterinary Medical Officer Dr. Chelsey Shiveley discusses USDA’s biosecurity resources available to poultry producers ahead of spring migration, increasing the risk of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) threatens commercial flocks.
Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding discusses the recent surge in bird flu cases, the state’s expanded biosecurity response and efforts to support poultry producers.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Border closures tied to the threat of New World Screwworm continue to stall Mexican fed cattle imports, tightening U.S. feeder cattle supplies over time — triggering feedlot closures that hinder herd rebuilding efforts, threaten the beef supply chain, and shrink production while consumer prices stay elevated.
Brooks York of AgriSompo discusses projected prices and how farmers are adapting their crop insurance strategies as the price discovery period comes to a close.
FFA Western Region Vice President Jael Cruikshank talks about the importance of community service and how National FFA Organization members are making a difference in their communities during National FFA Week.
Ranger Road Fire has burned 283,000 acres across Kansas and the Oklahoma Panhandle and is nearing containment, as ranchers begin assessing cattle and infrastructure losses as they look toward recovery.
Fed cattle numbers are down two percent in February, according to the latest USDA report. Marketings fell 13 percent, signaling continued pressure on beef prices in 2026.
Galynn Beer of Tidal Grow Agri-Science joined us to discuss challenges in fertility management, the benefits of Align-N, and what growers can expect at Commodity Classic next week.
Agriculture Shows
Hosted by Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady and RFD News Markets Specialist Tony St. James, Commodity Talk delivers expert insight into the day’s ag commodity markets just before the CME opens. Only on RFD-TV and Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147.
A look at the news, weather and commodities headlines that drove agriculture markets in the past week.
Everything profits from prairie. Soil, air, water — and all kinds of life! Learn how you can improve your land with prairie restoration, cover crops and prairie strips, while growing your bottom line.
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.