U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is calling on the Trump administration to take decisive action to combat the ongoing avian flu outbreak, which has contributed to rising egg prices and raised concerns about public health.
From the Office of US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand,
In a recent virtual press conference, Gillibrand urged the administration to prioritize the development and approval of a poultry vaccine to contain the spread of the virus.
The avian flu has been detected in 44 of New York State’s 62 counties, forcing the culling of over 150 million birds nationwide. One farm on Long Island alone reported the loss of 100,000 birds. Adding to the concern, a new strain of the virus has recently been identified in cattle, posing a potential threat to dairy farmers and public health if it continues to spread and evolve.
“Avian flu is decimating bird populations, and the subsequent shortage of egg-laying hens is making eggs unaffordable for working New Yorkers,” said Senator Gillibrand. “President Trump must act now to contain this outbreak. I am urging him to do everything in his power to prioritize the development of a vaccine to inoculate chickens against avian flu and fulfill his campaign promise to bring down grocery prices.”
Gillibrand also expressed concern over the administration’s handling of information related to the outbreak. “I am alarmed that the administration limited the data shared with the scientific community and am urging full transparency. This deadly disease requires a whole-of-government response to be enacted immediately,” she said.
The avian flu outbreak has had significant economic and agricultural impacts. The widespread loss of poultry has tightened egg supplies, contributing to higher prices for consumers. If the virus continues to spread in livestock, experts warn it could further disrupt food supply chains and present additional public health risks.
Gillibrand’s call for action includes increased transparency on avian flu data and the reinstatement of federal personnel dedicated to tracking and managing outbreaks. She emphasized the importance of a coordinated government response to prevent further losses and mitigate risks to both agriculture and public health.
As the avian flu crisis continues, the scientific community and policymakers are closely watching the administration’s next steps in addressing the outbreak and supporting affected farmers and consumers.
