Public Risk Perceptions and Policy Attitudes Toward Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)

Context: Attention to the potential impact of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1, or “bird flu”) on human health increased following documentation of mammalian transmission in Spring 2024, and the prevalence of H5N1 in the commercial dairy supply. We aim to quantify (a) the prevalence and (b) socio-political correlates of public concern about H5N1, as well as support for policy action aimed at reducing its potential health risks. Methods: In a nationally representative survey of N = 831 US adults, we asked respondents to answer questions about their levels of concern about H5N1 transmission, beliefs about the safety of consuming unpasteurized milk products, and support for policy interventions. Results: Few Americans express high levels of concern about the H5N1 health risks. People who express lower levels of concern about H5N1 and those who hold inaccurate or uncertain views toward raw milk safety are in turn less supportive of policies aimed at mitigating the spread of H5N1; as is both anti-intellectual attitude endorsement and partisan identification with the Republican Party. Conclusions: Moderate levels of concern about H5N1 risks could undermine pandemic preparedness. Lacking strong signals from the public, policymakers may be reluctant to pursue policies that reduce avian influenza's pandemic potential.