Why Most Americans Would Likely Avoid Bird Flu Vaccine

NEW YORK — Warnings about bird flu transmission have been popping up on headlines across the globe. Public health concerns over bird flu, however, could face serious roadblocks as most Americans remain either unwilling or uncertain about taking protective measures against the spreading virus.

A startling 61.4% of Americans would either refuse or are unsure about taking a vaccine for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), even if recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Similarly, 55.6% would resist or question changing their dietary habits despite potential risks from consuming certain animal products.

These findings come from a national survey of 10,000 Americans conducted in August 2024, as cases of bird flu continue to emerge across the United States. The study, published in the American Journal of Public Health, finds concerning results over public awareness and willingness to take preventive action against this growing health threat.

The researchers note that the gap between public health experts’ warnings and the public’s understanding of the issue jeopardizes the country’s ability to manage and prevent the further spread of the virus effectively.

Public Awareness Gap

While 64.4% of survey respondents had heard of bird flu, only about a quarter (26.1%) understood that it could spread to humans, and even fewer (18.8%) were aware that a subtype (the H5N1 virus) had been detected in cattle.

By the time of the survey, 66 human cases had been confirmed in the United States in 2024, with most occurring among people with occupational exposure to sick animals. However, in September 2024, the first case without known occupational exposure was diagnosed in Missouri, suggesting potential unknown transmission pathways.

Many Americans also demonstrated limited understanding of food safety practices that could reduce infection risk. Less than 54% knew that pasteurized milk is safer than raw milk, despite recent recalls of H5N1-contaminated raw milk in California. Only about 71% understood that cooking meat at high temperatures could eliminate harmful viruses like H5N1.

Political Divide Deepens Response

Political affiliation influenced attitudes toward preventive measures. Democrats were significantly more likely to accept both vaccination and dietary changes compared to Republicans and Independents.

When controlling for sociodemographic factors, the study found Republicans were 3.5 times more likely to resist vaccination and 1.56 times more likely to resist dietary changes compared to Democrats. Independents showed similar patterns, being 2.69 times more likely to resist vaccination and 1.43 times more likely to resist dietary changes than Democrats.

Researchers suggest these political divisions reflect broader societal trends where skepticism of government recommendations runs deeper among conservative voters.

Location also played a significant role in willingness to follow public health guidance. Rural residents, who ironically may have higher exposure risk due to proximity to agriculture and livestock, showed greater resistance to both vaccination and dietary changes than urban dwellers.

Only 33.9% of rural Americans indicated they would accept a CDC-recommended vaccine, compared to 39.8% of urban residents. Similarly, just 38.9% of rural respondents would change dietary habits based on recommendations, versus 45.8% of urban dwellers.

Trust in government health agencies emerged as another critical factor. The study revealed limited trust in the CDC, Food and Drug Administration, and U.S. Department of Agriculture among nearly 40% of respondents.

When people don’t trust experts, they’re more likely to ignore their advice and resist taking necessary steps to protect their health, even if those actions are meant to prevent the spread of dangerous diseases like H5N1.

Pandemic Fatigue Complicates Response

After years of COVID-19 messaging and restrictions, many Americans appear exhausted by public health campaigns. The study found 38% of respondents reported feeling “mentally and emotionally drained by the constant cycle of health warnings and changes to daily life.”

This pandemic fatigue may further complicate efforts to engage the public in preventive measures against bird flu, even as the threat grows more serious.

Managing the current avian influenza threat and preparing for future infectious disease complications requires urgent action. Study researchers recommend clear, targeted messaging that engages local leaders and academic partners already working in communities.

In order to avoid a major public health crisis, the United States needs to bolster its health agencies, while also educating and engaging the public, about the dangers of consuming unpasteurized milk and the importance of vaccination. Without addressing the underlying issues of political polarization, rural-urban divides, and eroded trust in health institutions, efforts to control this emerging threat may fall short.