Washington, D.C., Feb. 27, 2025 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced new measures to combat highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), and the response from elected leaders and industry stakeholders has been overwhelmingly positive. The five-pronged strategy, outlined by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins in a recent interview with FOX News, aims to strengthen biosecurity, support farmers, and ensure affordable food prices for American families.
The threat of HPAI has been a growing concern for the poultry industry, with outbreaks occurring in various parts of the country in recent years. This highly contagious and deadly virus can devastate entire flocks, leading to significant economic losses for farmers and potentially impacting the availability and affordability of poultry products for consumers.
In light of this, the USDA has taken swift action to address the issue and protect the nation’s poultry industry. The five-pronged strategy includes increased biosecurity measures, support for affected farmers, and efforts to maintain affordable food prices for American families.
One of the key components of the strategy is the strengthening of biosecurity measures. This includes implementing stricter protocols for poultry farms and processing facilities, as well as increased surveillance and monitoring to quickly detect and contain any potential outbreaks. By taking a proactive approach to biosecurity, the USDA aims to prevent the spread of HPAI and protect the health of poultry flocks across the country.
In addition to biosecurity, the USDA is also providing support for farmers who have been affected by HPAI outbreaks. This includes financial assistance to help cover the costs of cleaning and disinfecting affected farms, as well as compensation for any losses incurred due to the virus. This support is crucial for farmers who have been hit hard by the impact of HPAI and will help them get back on their feet and continue providing high-quality poultry products for consumers.
Secretary Rollins also emphasized the importance of maintaining affordable food prices for American families. The USDA is working closely with industry stakeholders to ensure that the measures taken to combat HPAI do not lead to significant increases in the cost of poultry products. By keeping food prices stable, the USDA is not only supporting American families but also promoting a healthy and sustainable poultry industry.
The response to the USDA’s five-pronged strategy has been overwhelmingly positive, with elected leaders and industry stakeholders from around the country applauding the swift and comprehensive action taken by the Department. This united effort to combat HPAI is a testament to the strength and resilience of the American poultry industry.
In her interview with FOX News, Secretary Rollins highlighted the importance of collaboration and cooperation in addressing the threat of HPAI. She stated, “We are all in this together, and by working together, we can overcome any challenge that comes our way.” This sentiment is echoed by industry stakeholders who are committed to working closely with the USDA to ensure the success of the five-pronged strategy.
In conclusion, the USDA’s new measures to combat HPAI are a testament to the Department’s commitment to protecting the nation’s poultry industry and ensuring the availability of affordable food for American families. With strengthened biosecurity measures, support for affected farmers, and efforts to maintain stable food prices, the USDA is taking a proactive and comprehensive approach to addressing the threat of HPAI. As we move forward, let us continue to work together to protect the health and well-being of our poultry industry and our nation.
