Board Research Initiative (BRI) Competiton

Advancing Vaccine Technologies to Address Emerging Poultry Disease Challenges - 9/16/24

Research is needed to support the development of infrastructure and the capacity to rapidly respond to emerging poultry disease challenges. Studies supporting the advancement of vaccine technologies that are adaptable to address evolving and future disease challenges, in addition to new variants of current disease issues would accelerate the development of new animal health products and reduce administrative regulatory burdens. This will also ensure the product is safe and improve animal health. Read full initiative...

Combatting Avian Metapneumovirus (aMPV) in the Poultry Industry - 9/16/24

Avian metapneumovirus (aMPV) unexpectedly became a top disease of concern for the poultry industry in 2024. Hundreds of aMPV detections have been reported from producers across the country in the first and second quarters of 2024 after very few detections of aMPV in the United States over the past two decades. Currently, there is not a commercial vaccine approved for the industry to utilize in the U.S., and options for addressing the disease challenge are limited. Therefore, a safe and effective mechanism allowing industry to respond to emerging disease challenges, such as aMPV, more quickly would benefit the industry. Read full initiative...

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza - 9/16/24

There are thousands of cases in commercial poultry and backyard flocks since the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) outbreak began in early February of 2022, resulting in the loss of millions of birds. The H5N1 strain has been found in domestic and backyard flocks in forty-eight states, impacting farmers and all communities. Further, the virus has been transmitted to commercial dairy cattle and there are several human infections as well. Experiences in the previous HPAI outbreak allowed for a better understanding of the virus and many advancements to biosecurity and improvement to the response to the disease. The industry is still faced with key questions in biosecurity, depopulation, disposal, and repopulation. A greater understanding of how to best mitigate virus introduction to commercial facilities, reduce viral spread, and improve response that will assist the industry in reducing the impact of HPAI on the industry in both the current outbreak and potential future outbreaks. Read full initiative...