The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced a $306 million funding initiative to bolster its response to H5N1 avian influenza. This significant investment supports ongoing efforts to protect human and animal health and ensure food safety. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) assess the risk of H5N1 avian influenza to the general public as low, federal agencies, including the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and HHS, remain vigilant in collaborating with state, local, and industry partners.
HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra emphasized the importance of preparedness in maintaining public health and safety. He highlighted the critical nature of investments in disease surveillance, laboratory testing, and monitoring efforts alongside USDA partners, stressing that a robust, well-equipped response is essential for addressing potential scenarios.
Funding Allocation Highlights
HHS’s Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) will distribute $183 million to bolster regional, state, and local preparedness programs:
- Hospital Preparedness Program (HPP): $90 million
- National Emerging Special Pathogens Training and Education Center (NETEC): $10 million
- Regional Emerging Special Pathogen Treatment Centers (RESPTCs): $26 million
- Special Pathogen Treatment Centers (SPTCs): $43 million for avian influenza preparedness and response
- National Disaster Medical System (NDMS): $14 million to replenish equipment and supply caches
The CDC will allocate $111 million to enhance H5N1 monitoring and outreach capabilities:
- Jurisdictional Monitoring and Testing: $103 million to improve monitoring of exposed individuals, testing, and community outreach for high-risk populations such as livestock workers
- Diagnostic Test Kits: $8 million for manufacturing, storage, and distribution
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) will invest $11 million in research aimed at developing medical countermeasures:
- Centers for Excellence for Influenza Research and Response: $11 million
Ongoing Efforts Following the Detection of H5N1 in Cattle
Since the confirmation of H5N1 in cattle, the USDA and HHS have intensified their collaborative efforts with stakeholders nationwide to support state and local responses to the outbreak. These efforts include disease surveillance, laboratory testing, and monitoring to safeguard public health and maintain the integrity of the food supply chain.
For more information on the USDA and HHS initiatives to address H5N1 and ensure public and animal health, visit HHSand USDA resources.
