Fear of deportation among immigrant farmworkers in the U.S. is undermining critical efforts to prevent a bird flu outbreak from escalating into a pandemic, according to a recent report by health policy organization KFF. Dairy and poultry workers—key groups in the virus’s spread—are avoiding medical care due to heightened immigration enforcement, creating gaps in disease surveillance.
A Silent Health Crisis on Farms
Since March 2024, 65 U.S. dairy and poultry workers have tested positive for bird flu, but experts warn the actual number is likely higher. Patchy testing and workers’ reluctance to report symptoms have left health officials in the dark. "People are scared to go out, even to buy groceries," said Rosa Yanez, an outreach worker supporting immigrant communities in Michigan.
Collapse of Trust
Public health workers say immigration raids under the Trump administration have worsened anxieties. Vaccination rates dropped sharply after enforcement actions in January, with sick workers avoiding clinics. "They wanted protection, but fear kept them home," said Anna Hill Galendez of the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center. Latino communities, regardless of legal status, report widespread fear of profiling.
Global Implications
The risks extend far beyond U.S. borders. Each human infection provides the virus opportunities to mutate, raising pandemic risks. Antonio De Loera-Brust of United Farm Workers emphasized: "The virus doesn’t care about immigration papers. Failing to protect workers endangers everyone."
With trust eroding between health agencies and farmworkers, experts urge solutions balancing immigration policy and public safety. As one outreach worker warned anonymously: "Nothing is certain now. Fear is driving this crisis."
