Avian Flu Outbreak: Congressional Inquiry and HHS Response Plan for Safety and Security

In a letter to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra, Ranking Member Anna G. Eshoo of the Health Subcommittee in Palo Alto, CA, expressed concern about HHS’s response plan to the current outbreak of avian flu (H5N1) affecting livestock and humans. Eshoo requested more information on HHS’s efforts to monitor, contain, and combat the virus to ensure a comprehensive response to this and future outbreaks. This information will aid Congressional efforts to provide additional support as needed.

The presence of avian influenza in various mammals, including poultry and dairy cattle, has been reported in ten states, with the virus spreading to new species. Eshoo highlighted the increased risk of a highly infectious virus emerging and spreading among humans due to the close contact between infected mammals and humans. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) assesses the risk to the general public as low, the potential for transmission among humans remains a concern.

In her letter, Eshoo inquired about HHS’s collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to safeguard workers, particularly those working closely with affected livestock. She also sought information on HHS’s plans for distributing medical countermeasures like vaccines and antiviral medications, including strategies to prioritize high-risk populations. Additionally, Eshoo asked about HHS’s intentions for utilizing recently announced funding to enhance manufacturing and testing capacities.

Eshoo specified a deadline of June 21st for HHS to respond to her inquiries. For the full text of her letter, you can visit [insert link here].