A University of Missouri researcher has received a $1.9 million federal grant to develop a new vaccine against highly pathogenic avian influenza, or bird flu a disease that’s devastated poultry flocks, disrupted trade, and driven up egg prices across the country.
Professor Wenjun Ma will lead the three-year project with partners at Kansas State University and Monsanto.
Funded by the USDA, the study aims to create a next-generation vaccine that can distinguish between infected and vaccinated birds a crucial step for global trade and disease control.
Missouri alone saw more than four million bird flu cases last year.
Experts warn the virus has begun spreading to mammals, but say the new research could help prevent future outbreaks and protect the food supply.