RFK Jr. Faces Backlash Over Proposal to Let Bird Flu Spread in Poultry Farms

Experts warn of severe risks, including virus mutations, animal suffering, and economic fallout, as the controversial plan garners limited support from the USDA.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, proposed allowing bird flu to spread naturally in poultry farms to identify immune birds.
Veterinary and public health experts criticized the plan, citing risks of dangerous virus mutations, inhumane animal deaths, and increased infection threats.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture expressed interest in piloting the proposal under controlled conditions, despite widespread scientific opposition.
Kennedy's claims about natural immunity in poultry and wild birds are disputed by experts, who argue that modern poultry lacks genetic diversity to resist the virus.
The proposal reflects broader concerns over Kennedy's controversial public health policies, including his history of anti-vaccine positions and cuts to vaccine research.