Facing record-high egg prices due to a bird flu outbreak, the US Department of Agriculture contacted Denmark and other European nations to inquire about potential egg exports. These inquiries, part of a broader $1 billion effort to combat the crisis, follow existing US tariffs and threats of further economic sanctions against some European countries. While the Danish Egg Association confirmed receiving the request, it noted a global egg shortage, making significant exports unlikely. Turkey has already begun supplying eggs to the US.
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H5N1 avian flu has been detected in black rats in California, marking the first such case. This discovery follows previous confirmations of the virus in mice on affected farms and expands the list of infected mammals, which now includes a harbor seal, fox, bobcat, and domestic cat. The USDA is actively managing the ongoing outbreak, despite recent cost-cutting measures that led to the temporary dismissal of some bird flu experts, and continues to prioritize the response to the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). This widespread infection has resulted in the culling of approximately 148 million birds and has contributed to rising egg prices and several human cases, including one fatality.
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In an effort to cut costs, the USDA inadvertently terminated several bird flu experts, a move it is now working to rectify. These terminations, part of broader federal workforce reductions, impacted essential personnel despite exemptions for veterinarians and emergency responders. The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak, responsible for the culling of 148 million birds and impacting egg prices and human health, necessitates these experts’ continued employment. These actions follow recommendations from the Department of Government Efficiency and coincide with the cancellation of numerous contracts, some related to DEI initiatives.
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Wyoming recently identified its first human case of avian influenza, a development that has understandably sparked concern and a flurry of reactions. The news comes as a significant event, highlighting the potential for the virus to spread within the human population, although it’s crucial to remember that this specific instance doesn’t yet represent human-to-human transmission.
The initial announcement has, predictably, become a political lightning rod. Some celebrate the event, albeit darkly, as a sign of American exceptionalism, while others see it as a symptom of deeper systemic failures. The lack of a coordinated, effective response to the situation fuels these pessimistic viewpoints, with the current administration’s approach coming under heavy scrutiny.… Continue reading
January saw a record high average price of $4.95 for a dozen Grade A eggs, more than double the August 2023 low, primarily due to a large bird flu outbreak resulting in the culling of nearly 158 million birds. This surge accounts for two-thirds of the increase in overall food costs and has led to shortages in many grocery stores, with some locations experiencing significantly higher prices and limited availability. The USDA predicts a 20% increase in egg prices this year, and relief is not anticipated soon, exacerbated by increased holiday demand and ongoing production challenges. Higher feed, fuel, and labor costs, along with increased biosecurity measures and growing demand, further contribute to the price increases.
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Nevada reported its first human case of H5N1 avian influenza in a farm worker exposed to infected cattle, expanding the ongoing U.S. outbreak to nearly 70 human cases. The individual experienced conjunctivitis but is recovering, with no evidence of human-to-human transmission. The discovery follows the recent identification of a second avian flu strain (D1.1) in Nevada dairy cattle, raising concerns given a Louisiana death associated with this strain. Health officials emphasize the low public risk of the virus, according to the CDC.
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Following the detection of seven bird flu cases in New York City, Governor Hochul mandated a temporary closure of live poultry markets from February 7th to 14th for thorough disinfection. All markets, regardless of infection status, must sell remaining inventory and remain closed for five additional days after cleaning. Affected markets must contact the state Department of Agriculture, while the situation also impacts zoos and contributes to rising egg prices and price gouging concerns. A separate bird flu strain has also been detected in Nevada dairy cows, though milk pasteurization renders it safe for consumption.
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A new avian influenza variant (H5N1 D1.1) has infected dairy cattle in Nevada, exhibiting a mutation enabling more efficient replication in mammals. This mutation, unseen in other D1.1 strains, raises concerns about increased human transmission risk, particularly for those working with livestock. A farm worker has already tested positive for H5N1 in Nevada, displaying symptoms including conjunctivitis. The virus’s origin is currently under investigation, with theories suggesting transmission via wild birds or another intermediary animal.
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Avian influenza (bird flu) has been confirmed in a Montgomery County, Maryland backyard flock, prompting quarantine and depopulation of the affected birds to prevent further spread. The virus, transmitted through bodily fluids and contact, affects various poultry and wild bird species. While the risk of human transmission remains low, officials urge reporting any suspected cases to the Maryland Department of Agriculture. This marks a recent addition to several other cases confirmed in Maryland earlier this year.
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The US Department of Agriculture’s recent detection of a second bird flu strain in dairy cattle is undeniably alarming. This development raises serious concerns about the potential for widespread infection and the emergence of novel, highly pathogenic strains. The situation is particularly concerning given the already circulating strain, 2.3.4.4b (B3.13), which, while displaying a preference for avian receptors, demonstrates the ability to infect mammals, including humans, albeit with relatively mild symptoms in most cases. This dual infection capability introduces a significant risk.
This newly detected strain, 2.3.4.4b (D1.1), presents a far more dangerous profile. Its presence in wild birds and now in cattle is worrying because it carries a substantially higher mortality risk compared to B3.13, as evidenced by previous cases showing severe illness and even death.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood