CDC Funds Farmworker Flu Shots to Prevent Bird Flu Spread

CDC Allocates $10 Million to Farmworkers

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced Tuesday that it is allocating $10 million to organizations including the National Center for Farmworker Health to fund flu shots for farmworkers to prevent the spread of bird flu.

$5 Million for Seasonal Flu Shots

The CDC will allocate $5 million specifically for seasonal flu shots. Farmworkers who work on poultry, dairy, and pig farms are at highest risk of exposure to both seasonal flu and bird flu, known as H5N1.

Concerns Over Bird Flu Spread

The announcement comes amid growing concerns over the spread of bird flu in US agriculture. The virus has been detected in poultry and wild birds in several states, prompting heightened surveillance and precautions.

Efforts to Prevent Infection

Federal health officials are encouraging farmworkers in affected areas to get vaccinated for seasonal flu as a preventive measure. Vaccination can help reduce the risk of infection and prevent severe illness if exposed to the bird flu virus.