Researchers at Louisiana State University have secured a $2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to develop a novel vaccine against the highly contagious H5N1 strain of avian influenza. The funding will support the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine’s effort to protect poultry—chickens, ducks and turkeys—through a cutting‑edge nanobody approach.

Why the vaccine matters for Louisiana farmers

Since the current outbreak began in 2022, more than 168 million commercial and backyard birds have been lost nationwide, driving up prices for chicken and eggs. The disease has forced poultry producers to cull exposed flocks, threatening the state’s food supply and farm incomes.

“Highly pathogenic avian influenza continues to pose a serious threat to animal health, the poultry industry and our nation’s food supply,” said Dr. Mariano Carossino, associate professor and lead researcher on the project.

Innovative nanobody technology

The LSU team plans to use nanobodies—small molecules derived from disease‑fighting antibodies—to target the vaccine to specialized immune cells in the birds’ intestinal tract. By strengthening defenses at the site where infection typically begins, the vaccine could prevent illness and boost overall immunity.

Another goal is to make administration practical for producers. The researchers aim to formulate the vaccine so it can be delivered through drinking water and even to chicks before they hatch, allowing large‑scale vaccination without labor‑intensive injections.

Public‑health context

While avian flu can infect humans, the CDC reports only 74 human cases and three deaths since February 2024, with no documented person‑to‑person transmission. Proper handling and cooking of poultry eliminates any risk of infection.

Louisiana saw its first human case in December 2024, a senior citizen who died a month later. The state also recorded backyard bird infections and a domestic cat case in early 2025, underscoring the need for effective prevention.

Looking ahead

If successful, LSU’s vaccine could reduce the need for mass culling, stabilize poultry prices and safeguard the food supply for Louisiana families. The grant reflects the federal government’s commitment to supporting agricultural research that protects both producers and consumers.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.