Keith Poulsen, Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory: “Emergency response is hard.”

Keith Poulsen, Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory: “Emergency response is hard.”

From Take as Directed by CSIS Global Health Policy Center | Center for Strategic and International Studies

February 26, 2026 · 44 min

About this episode

Keith Poulsen discusses the challenges and updates regarding highly pathogenic avian influenza and its implications for the dairy industry and public health.

Keith Poulsen, professor at the University of Wisconsin and director of the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, provides an update on the status of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1), as pertains to dairy cattle, poultry, wildlife—and humans. Are we making progress in biosecurity in the dairy industry? Dairy may be decades behind, but keep in mind: “Cows are like walking tanks.” Keeping boots and clothes clean is essential to contain viral spread. Vaccines are often not a viable solution, given trade, economics and political realities. What forces are most impacting the affordability of eggs, beef, and other items? Impacting access to rural workforces, especially migrants? What have been the implications of major recent disruptions at USDA, CDC and FDA?

People in this episode

Guest: Keith Poulsen

Topics covered

  • avian influenza
  • biosecurity
  • dairy industry
  • veterinary diagnostics
  • public health

Keywords

  • H5N1
  • dairy cattle
  • poultry
  • wildlife
  • vaccines
  • USDA
  • CDC
  • FDA

More episodes of Take as Directed

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Take as Directed podcast page.