At a time when public health efforts should be strengthened, the Trump administration’s federal workforce cuts are undermining our ability to combat the bird flu crisis.
A bird flu outbreak since 2022 has led to over 162 million culled birds, affecting 24 states in the last 30 days. Rising infections impact farmers, causing market uncertainty and rising consumer prices. Over 20 million egg-laying chickens died in the last quarter, shrinking the conventional egg-laying flock. The federal government spent over $1.25 billion in compensation, but its response is considered inadequate. Staff cuts at the CDC and USDA, including those specializing in animal disease mitigation, have further undermined efforts. Proposed plans and tariffs are criticized for potentially increasing costs for farmers and consumers.
