Westbank Louisiana News

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA), ranking member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, has called for increased briefings from the Biden administration on the ongoing avian flu outbreak that is threatening both livestock and the human population.

Cassidy expressed his concerns about the situation, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and reviewing food safety practices to prevent any unsafe products from reaching consumers. He specifically mentioned, "It is essential for federal agencies to remain vigilant in ensuring food safety practices continue to be monitored and reviewed as needed to prevent any unsafe products from entering the market."

The senator highlighted the need for continuous updates on the epidemiological status of H5N1 in both animal and human populations, interagency coordination, guidance provided to state and local agricultural and public health agencies, and efforts to disseminate information to stakeholders. Cassidy stated, "As the Ranking Member of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, I request continued briefings on epidemiological updates on H5N1 in both animal and human populations, interagency coordination, guidance and technical assistance you are providing to state and local agricultural and public health agencies, and ongoing efforts to disseminate information to stakeholders."

The outbreak of H5N1 avian influenza, which was first identified in 1996, has led to significant mortality among domestic and wild birds worldwide since 2021. The virus has now been detected in at least 48 mammal species in 26 countries, raising concerns about potential transmission to humans. Cassidy highlighted the recent case of a dairy worker in Texas who tested positive for avian influenza, marking the first known human infection in the current outbreak.

In a letter addressed to Secretary Becerra and Secretary Vilsack, Cassidy stressed the importance of transparent updates on the government's efforts to address the evolving health security threat posed by H5N1. He underscored the urgency of the situation, urging proactive measures to safeguard both animal and human populations from the risks associated with the avian flu outbreak.

The senator's request for additional briefings reflects the gravity of the situation and the need for continued vigilance and coordination in combating the spread of avian influenza.

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