Your Premier Source for AI-Powered Animal Health Business Insights
SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS
Your Premier Source for AI-Powered Animal Health Business Insights
SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS
In response to growing discussions about the potential for poultry vaccination against Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), Aviagen® CEO, Jan Henriksen, has outlined the company’s position, firmly advocating for science-driven, sustainable solutions that prioritize the health of poultry flocks and the safety of the global food supply.
The recent surge in attention around the issue of poultry vaccination, particularly in light of the H5N1 strain of avian flu, has led to significant debate. While the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) initially considered vaccination as part of its strategy to combat the spread of HPAI, Secretary Brooke Rollins recently reversed this stance. In a statement, Rollins clarified that mandatory poultry vaccination would not be pursued now or in the future, a decision that Henriksen and Aviagen support wholeheartedly.
Henriksen emphasized that, while vaccination might appear as a potential short-term solution, it fails to address the root causes of HPAI outbreaks and may even introduce new risks. As he explained, the absence of sterilizing immunity with current vaccines raises concerns about the possibility of the virus mutating, which could make the situation worse rather than better. This concern was echoed in an article from MeatingPlace, which highlighted the ongoing debate surrounding the effectiveness and risks of vaccination in poultry.
Aviagen’s Commitment to Biosecurity and Resilient Breeding
Instead of vaccination, Aviagen advocates for enhancing biosecurity measures, which have proven to be effective in preventing and controlling the spread of avian diseases. Henriksen reiterated the importance of strategies such as improved ventilation in poultry barns, strict barn security, thorough cleaning and disinfecting practices, and restricted access to farms. Furthermore, selective breeding to strengthen the immune systems of poultry flocks is a cornerstone of Aviagen’s long-term approach. Henriksen emphasized that these scientifically backed practices, rather than a vaccine, offer more sustainable and effective solutions for managing HPAI and protecting the health of flocks.
The company’s stance is aligned with concerns raised by health officials. In a second article from MeatingPlace, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, raised concerns about the use of bird flu vaccines in poultry. Both the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have historically opposed vaccination, citing potential risks of viral mutations and the lack of complete immunity. Henriksen and Aviagen agree with these concerns and stress that any vaccine should be carefully considered, with a full understanding of its long-term consequences for both poultry and human health.
Industry Insights: Biosecurity Measures Yield Results
As highlighted by Tom Super, Senior Vice President of Communications at the National Chicken Council, biosecurity efforts have been notably successful in preventing HPAI outbreaks in poultry. According to Super, only about 8% of the birds affected by HPAI since 2022 have been broilers, suggesting that broiler farmers have been effectively managing risks with robust biosecurity measures during the outbreak.
Henriksen believes that the poultry industry’s future lies in collaborative, science-based solutions and a commitment to responsible practices. “By continuing to invest in biosecurity and selective breeding, we can create a more resilient poultry industry,” he said. “This will allow us to meet the growing demand for poultry products while maintaining safe, healthy food production and preserving global trade relationships.”
Aviagen remains confident that through research, innovation, and adherence to science-based principles, the poultry industry can overcome the challenges posed by HPAI without compromising the integrity of the industry or the health of flocks. Henriksen concluded that the focus must remain on long-term, proven solutions that are effective in protecting both the industry and consumers worldwide.
For further insights on this important issue, Henriksen encourages stakeholders to explore the in-depth discussions in recent MeatingPlace articles that tackle the risks and benefits of poultry vaccination and the industry’s ongoing response to HPAI.
References:
• MeatingPlace.com: RFK Jr. warns of bird flu vaccination in poultry
All rights reserved to The Animal Economics © Copyright 2025 | Web design & implementation: PAQ Consultancy
This website uses cookies. For details, please see our privacy policy. By clicking on the relevant button or any other element of the page, you consent to the use of cookies.
Reject
OK