Target: Brooke Rollins, US Secretary of Agriculture
Goal: Stop the dangerous spread of H5N1 avian influenza by reforming industrial animal agriculture to protect animal welfare and public health.
The alarming emergence of H5N1 avian influenza in a Nebraska dairy herd marks a significant escalation in the ongoing crisis of this far-reaching epidemic. This confirmation represents Nebraska’s first case in cattle, highlighting the disturbing trend of the virus spreading beyond poultry. Since 2022, nearly 175 million birds have been culled, alongside over 1,000 dairy herds affected across 17 U.S. states. The situation not only raises serious animal welfare concerns but also poses a threatening risk to food security and public health as the virus reportedly moves between species—including mammals.
The culling of millions of animals is a devastating consequence of the current industrial animal agriculture model, which has been repeatedly criticized for fostering overcrowded conditions and inadequate veterinary care. Investigations into factory farming practices show how these factors create ideal environments for viruses like H5N1 to thrive and spread. The recent Nebraska outbreak starkly illustrates the urgent need for systemic changes in how livestock is managed, as the persistence of this virus during non-peak seasons further underscores the fragility and instability of these farms.
To protect animals and prevent further outbreaks, it is essential to demand reform of the industrial animal agriculture system. There must be a commitment to creating safer, more humane food production methods that prioritize animal welfare and mitigate risks to public health. Immediate action is required to address these systemic failures, and it is crucial to halt the inhumane mass culling practices.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Secretary Rollins,
The recent confirmation of H5N1 avian influenza in a Nebraska dairy herd is a dire reminder of the persistent threat that this virus poses to animal welfare, food security, and public health. With the culling of nearly 175 million birds and over 1,000 dairy herds affected nationwide, the implications of this epidemic are profound and far-reaching. This outbreak raises urgent questions about the sustainability and ethics of industrial animal agriculture practices.
Investigations have revealed overcrowded conditions and inadequate veterinary care within these systems, effectively creating breeding grounds for H5N1 and enabling its alarming spread to new species. As the virus migrates from birds to mammals, the risk to human health increases dramatically. These systemic shortcomings need to be addressed immediately, as no reliable vaccine is available, and culling remains the cruel primary method of containment.
The time has come to take decisive action to safeguard animal welfare and public health by reforming our food systems. A shift away from industrial farming practices towards sustainable, humane alternatives is essential. We urge you to lead in implementing policies that prioritize the well-being of animals and the safety of our food supply by addressing these critical issues head-on.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Pixabay
