USDA Will Consider Case-by-Case Authorization of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Vaccine for Certain Zoo Animals
USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is alerting zoos and state animal health officials that it will consider requests for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) vaccination to protect certain susceptible species preserved in zoo collections in the United States. Authorization will be granted on a case-by-case basis under very specific conditions.
USDA does not currently authorize the use of HPAI vaccine in the United States in any livestock or poultry species, but limited use of HPAI vaccination has been approved on a case-by-case basis for use in a critically endangered California condors.
The approval process to ship and use the vaccine requires documentation of the vaccination plan, details of veterinary oversight, protocol for use, and how the facility will dispose of any unused vaccine. Additionally, APHIS and state animal health officials will maintain strict oversight over any zoos approved to vaccinate susceptible species, to ensure it is only administered to the approved animals.
Addressing HPAI is one of USDA’ s highest priorities. In early 2025, Secretary Rollins announced a comprehensive strategy to ensure USDA is using every tool at our disposal against this disease. In support of the USDA strategy, APHIS is investing up to $100 million to support HPAI-related projects for potential new generation vaccines, therapeutics, and other innovative solutions for HPAI response.
