As avian flu continues to spread across the country, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is pressing the Trump administration to take immediate action to curb the outbreak and stabilize soaring egg prices.
During a virtual press conference, Gillibrand urged the administration to support the development of a poultry vaccine, share crucial tracking data, and coordinate a stronger federal response. She warned that failing to act could have serious consequences for farmers, consumers, and public health.
“Avian flu is decimating bird populations, and the subsequent shortage of egg-laying hens is making eggs unaffordable for working New Yorkers,” Gillibrand said. “President Trump must act now to contain this outbreak. I am urging him to do everything in his power to prioritize the development of a vaccine to inoculate chickens against avian flu and fulfill his campaign promise to bring down grocery prices.”
Bird flu has been detected in 44 of New York’s 62 counties, forcing the culling of more than 160 million birds nationwide, including 100,000 at a single farm on Long Island. A new strain has also been identified in cattle, raising concerns about potential human health risks if the virus continues to evolve.
Despite the growing crisis, Gillibrand said the Trump administration has reduced transparency by withholding critical data on avian flu’s spread and dismissing federal employees responsible for tracking cases. She is demanding a “whole of government response” that includes vaccine development, data sharing, and engagement with international trading partners to safeguard agricultural exports.
Gillibrand has sent a letter to federal agencies requesting monthly updates on coordination efforts, vaccine progress, and outreach to global trade partners.
