The ongoing avian influenza (bird flu) outbreak that began in early 2022 has led to the loss of millions of chickens and turkeys on commercial farms to help control the spread of the highly contagious virus. The outbreak persists into 2023, although at lower levels than last year. Still, the economic toll has been substantial for the poultry industry.
Over 1.3 Million Egg Farm Chickens Killed Recently
In the past month alone, over 5.8 million birds have been slaughtered due to bird flu detection in commercial facilities. The largest recent case was on an Ohio egg farm this week, where 1.35 million chickens are being killed to restrict spread after the virus was confirmed within one house.
Iowa Hardest Hit as Nation’s Largest Egg Producer
Iowa, the #1 US state for egg production, has faced the most devastation from this outbreak with 17.3 million birds from infected farms already culled. Other top egg states like Ohio, Minnesota, and Wisconsin have each seen several million chicken losses as the virus impacts flock after flock.
How Avian Flu Spreads Between Farms
The avian influenza virus transmits easily to poultry through contact with the droppings and nasal discharge of infected migrating wild birds. Unfortunately, some infected wild birds have continued moving through major bird migration flyways this year.
Strict Biosecurity Measures Help Prevent Spread
Farmers are utilizing rigorous biosecurity measures to protect flocks by actions like requiring staff clothing changes before entry, sanitizing vehicles entering barns, and dedicating separate tools per barn. But risks still remain high seasonally.
2022 Outbreak Was Most Devastating on Record
The 2022 outbreak led to nearly 58 million commercial poultry being slaughtered – making it the deadliest bird flu outbreak in US history according to USDA. While lower presently, continued viral circulation means vigilance is warranted.
Financial Toll Extensive on Poultry Companies
The sheer volume of poultry loss for producers dealing with infected barns has dealt a painful financial blow to the industry. Costs include cleaning, disinfection, testing, and halting operations for long periods before restocking barns virus-free. Plus record high feed costs compound margin pressures for those still operating at present. Government indemnity payments to farms help offset a small portion of total bird loss revenue impacts.
Prices and Supply Impacts Reaching Consumers
The heavy liquidation of egg-laying chickens at commercial farms to control outbreaks has led to noticeable consumer price increases and sporadic spot shortages for eggs and turkey in grocery stores given supply chain disruptions. Retail egg prices hit record levels close to $5 recently before moderating slightly.
Poultry producers hope migration patterns in early 2023 limit additional bird flu cases. However, uncertainty persists regarding viral spread into the next seasonal migration next year and beyond. The economic impacts on companies grappling with this outbreak have already proved devastating for the agriculture industry.
