Public Ignorance and Apathy Towards Bird Flu Could Lead to Public Health Crisis
In a recent editorial published in the American Journal of Public Health, researchers from the CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy (CUNY SPH) highlighted the potential threat of bird flu (highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI) and the challenges posed by public ignorance and apathy towards the virus. Led by a team including Assistant Professor Rachael Piltch-Loeb, Associate Professor Katarzyna Wyka, and other esteemed colleagues, the study revealed concerning findings from a population-representative survey conducted in the United States.
The survey, conducted from August 5 to 15, 2024, revealed that a significant number of respondents were unaware of basic food safety practices that could help reduce the risk of HPAI infection. Surprisingly, over half of the participants were unaware that pasteurized milk is safer than raw milk. However, a majority did understand that cooking meat at high temperatures could eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses like H5N1.
Furthermore, the study found that a considerable percentage of respondents were unwilling to modify their diets to reduce exposure to the virus, with some expressing reluctance to take a potential vaccine for H5N1, even if recommended by the CDC. Notably, participants who identified as Republicans or Independents were less likely than Democrats to support vaccination or dietary changes. Additionally, rural Americans, who are more likely to work or live in or near livestock industries, were less receptive to public health measures compared to urban residents.
Lead author Rachael Piltch-Loeb emphasized the potential consequences of these attitudes, stating that they could impede efforts to contain the virus and prevent a larger public health crisis. She underscored the need for targeted health communication strategies tailored to different segments of the population, especially considering the variations in responses based on political affiliation and geographic location.
Kenneth Rabin, a seasoned expert in health communications, highlighted the importance of collaboration with agricultural leaders, farm communities, and food processing companies to address the issue effectively. He pointed out the challenges posed by the undocumented status of many agricultural workers who are at direct risk of exposure to the bird flu virus, which could hinder efforts to track and control infections.
The study, titled “The American Public’s Disengagement With Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI): Considerations for Vaccination and Dietary Changes,” provides valuable insights into the public’s perception of bird flu and the need for proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with the virus. The researchers stress the importance of raising awareness, promoting vaccination, and implementing food safety practices to prevent a potential public health crisis.
For more information, the study can be found in the American Journal of Public Health (2025) under DOI: 10.2105/AJPH.2025.308080. This research was conducted by the CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, underscoring the critical role of public health institutions in addressing emerging threats like bird flu.
