As bird flu continues to spread across U.S. farms, leading health experts are sounding the alarm over a potential new epidemic.

Nearly 1,000 dairy herds have been affected by the H5N1 virus, and over 70 human cases have been reported, including the country’s first confirmed death from the strain.

Scientists from the Global Virus Network (GVN) warn that the U.S. poultry industry is especially vulnerable—particularly in densely farmed regions lacking protective gear. Since 2022, over 168 million poultry have been lost due to the outbreak, pushing egg prices higher.

Though human-to-human transmission hasn’t occurred yet, experts caution that mutations or genetic exchanges between viruses could raise the risk. The GVN is urging governments to ramp up surveillance, tighten biosecurity in agriculture, and prepare for the possibility of human transmission to avoid a repeat of COVID-19’s early chaos.

“Initiatives should focus on enhancing biosecurity measures in agricultural settings and educating the public about safe handling of poultry products and potential risks associated with contact with infected animals,” said Dr. Peter Palese, a GVN director and influenza expert.

Dr. Ab Osterhaus, another GVN director, emphasized the need for herd management and possible vaccination to limit spread among cattle. “Given the growing circulation of H5N1 among mammals, the GVN calls for urgent efforts to understand and interrupt transmission in cattle,” he said. Strengthening monitoring at the human-animal interface is key, he added.

Earlier this year, reports surfaced that a $590 million contract awarded to Moderna by the Biden administration to develop a bird flu vaccine might be canceled. Since the change in U.S. leadership, the White House’s pandemic office has faced funding and staffing challenges, raising concerns about preparedness.