Avian influenza (H5N1) has disrupted agricultural systems globally, leading to the culling of more than 166 million commercial poultry birds in the United States since 2022. Staying current on biosecurity and research matters to every gamebird producer.
Promising new vaccine against H5N1 bird flu
Published April 27, 2026
Researchers at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, led by virologist Eric Weaver, have developed a vaccine approach showing promise against H5N1. The vaccine was tested in mice and dairy calves, producing strong immune responses and complete protection against severe disease in preclinical models.
The platform targets multiple H5N1 strains and generates immunity through both bloodstream and respiratory pathways. Weaver noted the vaccine could protect livestock — particularly cattle, which currently lack a licensed H5N1 vaccine. The team is pursuing funding and partnerships for further development, including multispecies applications, with results forthcoming in NPJ Vaccines.
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