Bird Flu, Cockfighting, and a Crisis on the Horizon | Episode 72

The only thing we learn from history is that we don’t learn anything from history. That was the summary comment of host Joseph Grove in a conversation about the federal government’s lackadaisical response to the emergent bird flu crisis.

The podcast was recorded shortly after the virus claimed its first U.S. human fatality, a man in Louisiana. Grove was joined by Dr. Jim Keen and Dr. Tom Pool. They reviewed the progress of the disease in the United States, its spread from birds to cattle and humans, and the possibility—perhaps even the likelihood—that a virulent form will soon emerge that enables fast transmission among people. If that happens, the experts said, the COVID pandemic in retrospect may look mild by comparison.

Drs. Keen and Pool also talked about the importance of passing the FIGHT Act, legislation to be reintroduced in the new Congress that would help eradicate cockfighting in the United States. Cockfighting entails poor standards of bird handling and the movement of potentially infected birds across the country and the world, all in addition to the “sports” inherent animal cruelty and appurtenant crimes of drugs, illegal weapons, illicit gambling, and even human trafficking.

MORE ON THE SUBJECT

• To support the FIGHT Act, use this simple online tool to show your support to your elected officials in Washington.
• To read the Vanity Fair article referenced by Dr. Pool, go here (subscription may be required).
• To read Dr. Keen’s scientific look at the dangers and transmissibility of bird flu and its connection to cockfighting, go here.

 

The Animal Wellness podcast is produced by Animal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy. It focuses on improving the lives of animals in the United States and abroad through legislation and by influencing businesses to create a more humane economy. The show is hosted by veteran journalist and animal-advocate Joseph Grove. 

 

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