Bird Flu Outbreak Causes Egg Shortages and Price Hikes: What Consumers Need to Know

Bird flu is wreaking havoc on chicken farms across the country, causing widespread egg shortages and price increases at retailers and restaurants. Last week, one of America’s largest egg producers confirmed that chickens on one of its Indiana farms had tested positive for avian influenza.

Despite these disruptions, public health experts emphasize that the bird flu poses a relatively low risk to humans. However, the situation could change as the virus circulates and potentially mutates.

Egg producers respond swiftly to outbreaks by culling infected flocks. The virus kills hens before they can lay eggs, ensuring that contaminated eggs do not enter the food supply.

While human infections remain rare, with at least 66 cases in the United States since 2024, scientists are investigating whether the virus can be transmitted through food. Some studies indicate that monkeys fell ill after consuming raw milk containing the virus, and cats have died after eating tainted milk and pet food.

Research suggests that the virus is particularly prevalent in the udders of cows, leading to high concentrations in unpasteurized milk. However, it is less clear how much of the virus, if any, ends up in eggs.

Despite these concerns, the risk of contracting bird flu from eggs is low, especially when proper food safety measures are followed. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends cooking eggs to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure that yolks are firm and scrambled eggs are not runny.

Consumers can further minimize risks by handling raw eggs carefully. Thoroughly wash hands and clean all cooking surfaces and utensils with soap and water after use. Also, avoid consuming raw or partially cooked eggs in foods like dough and batter.

For an extra layer of safety, opt for pasteurized egg products, which inactivate the virus through the pasteurization process.

Regular foodborne pathogens like salmonella pose much greater risks and can cause severe illnesses, especially in vulnerable groups such as young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals.

“Following proper food handling practices and cooking eggs as recommended can significantly reduce any risk of bird flu infection,” said Dr. Meghan Davis, a veterinarian and environmental epidemiologist at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

In summary, while the current bird flu outbreak may cause inconvenience due to egg shortages and higher prices, the risk to human health remains minimal when appropriate precautions are taken.