Bird Flu Impact on U.S. Poultry and Egg Prices (2025)
A severe bird flu outbreak has significantly impacted the U.S. poultry industry, especially egg production. Here’s a summary of the situation based on recent reports:
- Loss of Millions of Chickens: According to HealthDay News (jan. 14, 2025), over 20 million egg-laying chickens have died due to bird flu in the last quarter, causing widespread disruption in U.S. chicken farms.
- Total Bird Deaths: FirstPost reports that since the virus was first detected in a commercial flock on February 8, 2022, more then 147 million birds, including 108 million egg-laying chickens, have either died or been culled to control the spread of the virus.
- Impact on Egg Prices: CBS News reports that the ongoing egg crisis, driven by Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), has led to egg restrictions, shortages, and record-high prices across the U.S. The situation is expected to worsen in 2025.
- Human Cases: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that while the public health risk is low, there have been at least 67 confirmed human cases of bird flu in 10 states, with one death associated with the H5N1 infection. most human cases are mild, and there is currently no evidence of human-to-human transmission.
These reports highlight the significant impact of bird flu on the U.S.poultry industry and the resulting economic and public health concerns.
Bird Flu’s Devastating Impact on U.S. Poultry and Egg Prices in 2025
Table of Contents
A severe bird flu outbreak has substantially impacted the U.S. poultry industry, especially egg production. Here’s a summary of the situation based on recent reports:
Loss of Millions of Chickens
According to HealthDay News (Jan. 14, 2025), over 20 million egg-laying chickens have died due to bird flu in the last quarter, causing widespread disruption in U.S. chicken farms.
Total Bird Deaths
FirstPost reports that as the virus was first detected in a commercial flock on February 8, 2022, more than 147 million birds, including 108 million egg-laying chickens, have either died or been culled to control the spread of the virus.
Impact on Egg Prices
CBS News reports that the ongoing egg crisis, driven by highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), has led to egg restrictions, shortages, and record-high prices across the U.S. The situation is expected to worsen in 2025.
Human Cases
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that while the public health risk is low, there have been at least 67 confirmed human cases of bird flu in 10 states, with one death associated with the H5N1 infection. Most human cases are mild, and there is currently no evidence of human-to-human transmission.
Interview with Dr. Emily Thompson, Avian Flu Specialist
Introduction
We sat down with Dr. Emily Thompson, a renowned avian flu specialist, to discuss the recent developments and the impact of bird flu on the U.S. poultry industry and egg prices.
Loss of Millions of Chickens
Senior Editor: Dr. Thompson, can you provide some insights into the recent loss of over 20 million egg-laying chickens due to bird flu?
Dr. Emily Thompson: Certainly. The bird flu outbreak has been notably devastating for the poultry industry. The loss of over 20 million chickens in a short period is unprecedented and has led to meaningful disruptions in egg production and supply chains.
Total Bird Deaths
Senior Editor: Since the virus was first detected, over 147 million birds have either died or been culled. How does this compare to previous outbreaks?
Dr. Emily Thompson: The current outbreak is one of the largest we’ve seen in recent history. The scale of the culling and the number of birds affected are significantly higher than in previous outbreaks. This massive loss has had a ripple effect on the entire poultry industry, from farmers to consumers.
Impact on Egg Prices
Senior Editor: How has the bird flu outbreak affected egg prices, and what can consumers expect in the coming months?
Dr. Emily Thompson: The bird flu outbreak has led to a significant shortage of eggs,driving prices to record highs. Consumers can expect prices to remain elevated and potentially worsen as the situation continues. The disruptions in supply chains and the ongoing culling of infected flocks will likely keep egg prices high for the foreseeable future.
Human cases
Senior Editor: With at least 67 confirmed human cases of bird flu, how concerned should the public be about the health risks?
Dr. Emily Thompson: While the public health risk is currently low,it’s vital for the public to remain vigilant. The majority of human cases have been mild, and there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission. However, the situation is being closely monitored, and public health officials are prepared to respond if necessary.
Conclusion
Senior Editor: Dr. Thompson,what are the main takeaways from this interview,and what advice would you give to the public and industry stakeholders?
Dr. Emily Thompson: The main takeaways are the severe impact of the bird flu outbreak on the poultry industry,the significant increase in egg prices,and the importance of public health vigilance. I would advise industry stakeholders to continue implementing biosecurity measures to prevent further spread of the virus. Consumers should expect higher egg prices and support their local farmers by purchasing from trusted sources.
