USDA mistakenly fires staff essential to fighting bird flu

In the United States, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) revealed that several of its employees involved in combating the H5N1 avian influenza were mistakenly terminated. This incident occurred during recent layoffs as part of broader government workforce reduction efforts initiated by President Donald Trump and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk. The firings sparked immediate public concern, particularly given the ongoing outbreak of bird flu that has devastated poultry farms and significantly increased egg prices. The USDA acknowledged that the terminations took place over a weekend, resulting in confusion and outcry regarding potential repercussions for public health. An agency spokesperson indicated that the USDA was working quickly to reverse those terminations, asserting the essential roles these employees play in ensuring a robust federal response to the spreading avian flu. As a result of the outbreak, soaring egg prices have affected consumers nationwide, with the average price of a dozen Grade A large eggs reaching a record high of $4.95. Reports indicate that over 23 million birds have been impacted by the virus, leading to increased scrutiny over the government's handling of the situation, particularly following widespread layoffs. There is a growing recognition among lawmakers and the public that such staff cuts could hinder effective management of the outbreak and any future health crises. The firings have caused a rift in communication between the administration and Congressional Republicans, many of whom expressed concerns over the staff reductions in the context of a pressing public safety issue. Federal employees have increasingly faced termination as the administration moves to streamline processes without adequate foresight into the potential consequences.