Bird flu's comeback raises fears about readiness

Migratory birds are accelerating avian flu outbreaks across the U.S., raising alarms about preparedness, particularly during a government shutdown. The spread to commercial poultry could lead to increased food prices. The virus is evolving and infecting other species, fueling fears of human transmission and a pandemic. Recent outbreaks have affected millions of birds in 17 states, and infections have been detected in dairy cows and cats. Federal response efforts are hindered by staff reductions at the CDC and USDA, immigration enforcement on farms, and the shutdown impacting crucial activities. Resource shortages at the USDA are significant, with farm bill passage delays impacting funding. While the CDC's flu team remains operational for sample sequencing, communication of findings is uncertain. Past bird flu outbreaks have caused egg shortages and price hikes, and the White House Office of Pandemic Preparedness was dismantled. Animal vaccination rates are low, and funding for human bird flu vaccines was cut. Scheduled expert meetings are not occurring, and the CDC is scaling back its emergency response. The shutdown is preventing USDA participation in critical expert meetings, leading to a lack of data for decision-making. HHS is initiating reforms at the CDC to refocus on infectious disease protection. The administration has allocated funds to combat bird flu, primarily for farm biosecurity and farmer relief. However, some criticize the administration's response as sluggish and downplaying risks. Responding effectively to bird flu is challenging due to dwindling resources and information gaps, despite it not being a widespread human threat currently.