The specter of H5N1 virus hangs over U.S. agriculture, but the pork industry isn't waiting to take action. Following a recent detection in pigs on a small Oregon homestead farm, livestock organizations are mobilizing to prepare for potential spread through a collaborative, science-driven approach.

Dr. Heather Fowler and Dr. Marisa Rotolo from the National Pork Board reveal how the industry is developing a comprehensive H5N1 response plan through collaboration. Their work bridges the National Pork Producers Council, Swine Health Information Center, American Association of Swine Veterinarians, and the Meat Institute to create unified protocols that protect both animal and human health.

At the heart of this preparation is the One Health philosophy—a framework recognizing the inseparable connections between human health, animal health, and environmental conditions. As Dr. Fowler explains, "We can't just live in our silos... we have to look at it simultaneously." This approach proves especially relevant for influenza, where transmission can occur between species sharing environments. For producers, this means evaluating biosecurity measures with fresh eyes—repairing bird netting, addressing structural vulnerabilities, and carefully managing movements between facilities. Even with the swine industry's already stringent protocols, experts emphasize that pathogens evolve rapidly, necessitating continuous learning and adaptation.

Whether you're a commercial producer, small farm operator, or concerned consumer, this episode offers clear guidance on preventing disease spread while maintaining a safe food supply. Join us for an illuminating discussion on how agriculture is leading the way in preparing for potential pandemic threats. Want to stay informed about agricultural health issues? Subscribe to One Health Live on your favorite podcast platform.

Avian influenza has transformed from a periodic poultry concern into a persistent global health threat that crosses species barriers with alarming versatility. In this illuminating conversation, veterinary pathologist Dr. David Swayne draws upon his 38 years of experience to reveal how the current H5N1 virus has fundamentally changed since emerging in 1996.

The virus we face today is unlike its predecessors. Where once avian influenza would disappear seasonally, this lineage maintains year-round transmission cycles in wild bird populations before spilling over into poultry and even some mammals. Dr. Swayne walks ONE Health Live hosts Sarah Muirhead and Dennis Erpelding through the science behind these adaptations and explains why the recent jump into U.S. dairy herds represents a concerning new development rather than just another isolated event.

Perhaps most compelling is Dr. Swayne's exploration of how human health outcomes directly improve when we address disease at the animal source. He points to dramatic reductions in human infections following poultry vaccination programs in Asia, demonstrating the tangible benefits of a One Health approach. Yet challenges remain, particularly in establishing effective communication channels between public health authorities, agricultural sectors, and environmental agencies – gaps that became painfully apparent when the virus suddenly emerged in Latin American countries unprepared for cross-sectoral collaboration.

The conversation also tackles complex questions about virus nomenclature, zoonotic risk assessment, and the essential role of international organizations in coordinating global responses. Throughout, Dr. Swayne emphasizes that solving these multifaceted challenges requires breaking down traditional silos between environmental, animal, and human health sectors to develop integrated solutions that protect all species.

Curious about how avian influenza affects your food systems, wildlife conservation efforts, or public health? Subscribe to One Health Live for more expert insights that bridge the gaps between science, policy, and practical solutions to our most pressing health challenges.