The ongoing H5N1 avian influenza outbreak, commonly known as the bird flu, continues to impact both animals and humans nationwide.
In the U.S., the CDC reports detections in wild birds across all 51 jurisdictions, affecting over 168 million poultry and nearly 1,000 dairy herds in 17 states.
Human cases, while rare, are still concerning. The first human case was reported in April 2024. Since 2024, approximately 70 infections have been confirmed, mostly among individuals with direct exposure to infected animals such as farmers.
The first U.S. fatality occurred in Louisiana earlier this year, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. In Feb., cases were confirmed in a dairy worker, a poultry worker and a backyard poultry owner, two of which required hospitalization.
However, above health concerns, the outbreak is straining food supplies and driving up costs of products such as eggs. The destruction of infected poultry flocks has led to widespread egg shortages, with prices surging over 30% in some regions according to the U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA). The dairy industry has also suffered losses as the virus spreads among cattle, raising concerns over milk production and potential disruptions to supply chains.
Anna Khondkaryan, an alumni of Van Nuys High School shared her opinion on the impact of the bird flu on consumers such as herself.
“I’ve seen the rise in prices of things such as eggs at my grocery store,” she said. “It makes it more difficult especially for young adults such as myself having to spend more money on food.”
Grocery stores across the country have reported empty shelves and rationing of eggs and poultry products, frustrating consumers.
“Going to restaurants recently I’ve seen things cost more, like certain plates especially with eggs,” she said.
In response, the USDA launched a $1 billion initiative to contain the virus, protect the poultry industry and stabilize prices. However, they emphasize the need for continued surveillance and precautionary measures to prevent further disruptions and mitigate the risk of a larger public health crisis.
