USDA Announces $17.6 Million Investment to Protect Agricultural Animals' Health
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has made a landmark $17.6 million investment aimed at protecting livestock welfare and advancing research that safeguards animal health. This funding will support critical projects focusing on the prevention and control of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) and African swine fever (ASF).
According to Manjit Misra, PhD, director of USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), “Protecting the health and welfare of agricultural animals is integral to ensuring a safe, sustainable food system.” This investment includes $12.7 million allocated to 27 projects across various universities, all aimed at maintaining healthy agricultural animals.
Many funded projects will focus on developing vaccines to help control the spread of HPAI and ASF, diseases that pose significant risks to global animal health.
In addition, $4.8 million will support projects enhancing animal welfare through management strategies. This investment is part of USDA’s comprehensive One Health approach, addressing interconnected health issues affecting humans, animals, and the environment.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.