By Jamie Martin
The University of Maryland and USDA Agricultural Research Service researchers have secured $648,881 to develop a nasal vaccine that can prevent H5N1 bird flu in dairy cows. The funding comes from the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture.
H5N1 is a concerning virus that has spread from birds to other species, including dairy cattle and domestic pets. Although it does not currently spread between humans, people who work closely with infected cows have contracted the virus. Experts warn that more exposure increases the risk of mutation into a human-transmissible virus.
Researchers Xiaoping Zhu and Wenbin Tuo plan to use this grant to modify a nasal vaccine they created earlier for COVID-19 and flu in humans. The new version will be used for cows, offering direct protection to the respiratory system—the main entry point for the flu virus.
“Preventing the initial infection and spread of H5N1 in cows means reducing exposure to the virus for other mammals, dairy workers, and the general public,” said Zhu.
Unlike injections that work after infection begins, nasal vaccines help stop the virus before it can infect cells. This method reduces both infection and spread.
The research team believes the vaccine could be used for people if necessary, but the immediate goal is to keep the virus from infecting cows and reaching humans. The vaccine could be a key tool in managing future outbreaks and keeping both farms and communities safe.
This proactive step highlights how science can help agriculture face health challenges and protect lives.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National