The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is developing a plan to vaccinate poultry against bird flu, after massive outbreaks that led to the culling of nearly 175 million chickens, turkeys, and other birds since 2022-the worst animal health emergency in U.S. history.

The proposed approach involves an initial vaccine for baby chicks, followed by a booster and periodic flock testing every few weeks. The goal is to reduce viral susceptibility while maintaining strict monitoring standards. Any flock testing positive would still be culled to reassure key export markets.

Strategy and Funding

Up to $100 million has been allocated for vaccine development under a broader $1 billion USDA initiative including enhanced biosecurity, audits, and emergency relief. The USDA has already spent over $1 billion on indemnity payments for culled flocks.

Industry Tensions

The plan is generating mixed reactions:

• Egg and turkey producers support the move, seeing it as a way to protect flocks and rein in soaring egg prices.

• Chicken meat exporters, however, express concern that vaccinated flocks could be restricted by international buyers, potentially putting at risk some $4.7 billion in export revenue.

Implications for the Ag Sector

For poultry farmers and cooperatives, this strategy could deliver:

• Improved flock protection, minimizing losses and emergency culling costs.

• Stricter biosecurity measures, including audits and testing protocols.

• Growth opportunities for veterinary vaccine suppliers, diagnostic labs, and monitoring technologies.

• Possible stabilization of egg prices, benefiting producers, consumers, and processors alike.

What's Next

The USDA plans to finalize the strategy by July, after consultations with state authorities, poultry sector groups, and exporting countries. Balancing disease control with maintaining global market access will be the core challenge.