In my recent conversation with Lars Larson, we explored the scientific and logistical complexities of controlling Avian Flu, particularly through bioengineering and poultry management practices. He questioned the need to destroy entire flocks when only a few birds are sick — suggesting we allow survivors to breed naturally immune offspring instead. While practical in theory, such ideas overlook major scientific and logistical hurdles and drawbacks.
First, while infection with viruses like the flu does generate some immunity, flu viruses mutate rapidly, resulting in short-lived immunity and new outbreaks. Selectively breeding resistant chickens is no small feat, given that there are over a billion chickens in the US poultry industry. Testing these strains requires "challenges studies" in which birds are intentionally infected, in high-level, biosecure facilities, which are scarce.
Lars and I discussed the role of wild birds in spreading the virus, a key reason why free-range systems—now mandated in some states—pose greater risks than caged environments. Politically driven mandates for cage-free systems may have inadvertently worsened disease spread. As I told Lars, it's time that science, not ideology, guides our decisions —and maybe even put the chickens back in the cages.
You can listen to the entire conversation here:
For more on the topic
Previously Undiscovered Cases of Avian Flu in Veterinarians Are Worrisome
USDA's Dereliction in Containing Bird Flu Could Cause Calamitous Pandemic
How Bureaucratic Infighting, Dairy Industry Lobbying Have Worsened H5N1 Bird Flu Outbreak
How Close Are We to the Avian Flu Outbreak Escalating Into a Pandemic?
Henry I. Miller, MS, MD
Henry I. Miller, MS, MD, is the Glenn Swogger Distinguished Fellow at the American Council on Science and Health. His research focuses on public policy toward science, technology, and medicine, encompassing a number of areas, including pharmaceutical development, genetic engineering, models for regulatory reform, precision medicine, and the emergence of new viral diseases. Dr. Miller served for fifteen years at the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in a number of posts, including as the founding director of the Office of Biotechnology.
