Shift in Vaccination Strategy: From Stockpiling to mRNA Innovations

In this episode of the Talking Biotech podcast, Dr. Kevin Folta discusses the current state of avian influenza, particularly the H5N1 strain, its history, zoonotic potential, and the implications for both poultry and human health. Into 2025 it was being detected in wild birds,domestic flocks, cattle and humans. Where did it go?  He highlights the importance of surveillance, the impact of the virus on domestic poultry production, and the ethical concerns surrounding euthanization methods. Folta also explores potential solutions, including vaccination and transgenic strategies that go unused although they are known to be effective. Finally, what is the status of emergency response?  The strategic stockpiles are gone, new mRNA strategies have been defunded. With no desire to protect animals and government policy failing to take precautions to protect humans, an avian influenza pandemic may be devastating. The current situation is discussed.