The purpose of this CO-operative agreement is to develop a two-pronged immunoprophylactic strategy for the prevention and control of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in poultry

The Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service awarded a cooperative agreement to the University of Georgia Research Foundation, Inc. for $1,999,861, obligated on February 2, 2026, under the Plant and Animal Disease, Pest Control, and Animal Care program (CFDA 10.025).

The award funds development of a two-pronged immunoprophylactic strategy for prevention and control of highly pathogenic avian influenza in poultry. The work encompasses development of a rapid and cost-effective immunotherapeutic designed to protect highly susceptible young chicks and deployable during emergency outbreaks, combined in parallel with development of a vectored vaccine capable of inducing durable immune responses. The integrated strategy aims to establish comprehensive prevention, control, and emergency preparedness capability for HPAI.

Performance occurs in Athens, Georgia, with a period of performance from February 2, 2026 through February 1, 2029.

We aim to develop a rapid and cost-effective immunotherapeutic designed to protect highly susceptible young chicks and to be deployed during emergency outbreaks. In parallel, we will also develop a vectored vaccine capable of inducing durable immune responses. By combining a rapid-acting immunotherapeutic with a robust vectored vaccine, this project aims to establish a comprehensive strategy for the prevention, control, and emergency preparedness of HPAI.