Bolster resources to combat avian influenza outbreak

The ongoing outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu) demand a robust and well-coordinated response, not the decimation of vital scientific expertise and resources. Instead of cutting staff and funding at crucial federal agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the US Department of Agriculture, we need to bolster their capabilities. These institutions play a pivotal role in monitoring, studying, and containing the spread of zoonotic diseases like avian influenza. The situation is becoming increasingly dire, with a newer variant of H5N1 bird flu now spilling over into dairy cows in multiple states. This raises alarming questions about how the virus is mutating and transmitting between different animal reservoirs. Expert virologists warn that without decisive intervention, the current outbreak is unlikely to resolve on its own and could continue to escalate unchecked. Moreover, with seasonal influenza rates at their highest in over a decade, the risks of reassortment – where avian and human flu strains could mix to create new, potentially more dangerous variants – are heightened. Safeguarding public health demands a robust scientific response, not a retrenchment of resources and expertise. I urge you to reverse course on the damaging personnel cuts and funding reductions at the CDC and USDA. Instead, we need to empower these agencies with the staffing, funding, and support necessary to effectively tackle the bird flu crisis and protect public health. Our nation's preparedness for emerging infectious disease threats depends on a strong, well-resourced scientific infrastructure. Please act swiftly to address this pressing issue.