One Health Heroes: Dr. Joseph Annelli on Ethics, Avian Influenza, and Federal Preparedness

In this episode of Your Vet Wants You to Know – One Health Heroes, Dr. Joseph Annelli, a distinguished public health veterinarian and former USDA leader, provides deep insight into the ethical foundations of public health decision-making, the risks posed by avian influenza, and the impact of recent federal policy changes on One Health preparedness. With over three decades of experience in animal health, biosecurity, and pandemic planning, Dr. Annelli offers an unflinching look at where the U.S. stands—and where it desperately needs to go.

Highlights Include:

• Ethics in One Health Decision-Making​: Effective public health policy must balance the impacts on people, animals, and the environment.
  • Learn more about the One Health approach: CDC One Health
• Avian Influenza Risks and mRNA Vaccine Preparedness​: The decision to cancel federal contracts for H5N1 mRNA vaccine production is a short-sighted move that could cripple rapid response in a pandemic scenario.
  • Background on current H5N1 status: CDC Avian Influenza Current Situation Summary
• Federal Vaccine Policy Shifts​: The recent restructuring of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) raises concerns about a more opinion-based approach instead of a scientific-based approach to vaccines.
  • Information on ACIP’s role: CDC ACIP Overview
• Workforce Reductions and Biosecurity Threats​: USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has lost 15–20% of its veterinary workforce, threatening the ability to respond to ongoing outbreaks such as H5N1, African swine fever, and screw worm.
  • Learn more about APHIS programs: USDA APHIS Veterinary Services
• Legislative Path Forward - The One Health Security Act​: Dr. Annelli urges Congress to reintroduce and pass the One Health Security Act to centralize pandemic preparedness funding and coordination.
  • Learn more about the One Heath Security Act.

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