Summary
Bird flu cases are increasing in the United States, partly due to migratory birds spreading the disease. The government is facing challenges in responding to the outbreak because of budget issues, staff shortages, and a government shutdown.
Key Facts
- Bird flu has been found in 62 poultry flocks across 17 states, affecting 6.6 million birds.
- The virus has also infected mammals like dairy cows and cats in some states.
- Staff reductions at the CDC and Department of Agriculture complicate the federal response.
- The government shutdown has stopped some activities, like animal health lab meetings.
- The bird flu concerns were a test for the Trump administration, which cut a pandemic preparedness office.
- Vaccination rates for animals are low, and the government halted funding for a human bird flu vaccine.
- In February, $1 billion was allocated to fight bird flu, mainly for farm biosecurity and financial aid to farmers.
