Animal health company Zoetis says it is one step closer to victory in the fight against High-Path Avian Flu (HPAI).
The company says the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has given them a conditional license to develop a potential vaccine for chickens. Conditional licenses are issued during emergencies and will stand until Zoetis proves safety, purity, and a reasonable expectation of efficacy. Zoetis began working on the vaccine as soon as the virus strain was discovered in U.S. flocks in early 2022.
Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley hopes Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins can address the problem of vaccinated meat exports.
“I think from previous conversations with people, we haven’t used the vaccine because of international trade restrictions, and I think if she could win that over and we can vaccinate, I think it will take care of the problem.”
This all comes amid reports that several USDA employees working on High-Path Avian Flu research were mistakenly let go last week. We contacted the Department, and a spokesperson told us they are working to bring them back because they are considered public safety employees. One ag lawmaker understands the frustrations but is asking for some grace.
Congress has just over a month of working days left for the year. Plan for uneven USDA service until funding is restored, and closely monitor Farm Bill talks, as avoiding Permanent Law before January 1 is the single biggest risk to markets and milk prices.
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