Bird Flu Updates: All 50 states have now reported cases of the highly pathogenic H5N1 virus in bird populations (January 9, 2025)

Hi 👋

Here's your latest in-depth bird flu news roundup. You can also check out our live situation dashboard at birdfluwatcher.com for real-time news summary.

Latest Developments

• All 50 states have now reported cases of the highly pathogenic H5N1 virus in bird populations. [Source]

• Egg shortages and price spikes are being reported in multiple states like South Florida, Illinois, and Massachusetts due to the culling of millions of egg-laying hens infected with bird flu. Prices have more than doubled in some areas. [Source] [Source] [Source]

• Wild bird cases continue to surge, with new detections in areas like Austin, Texas and Sacramento County, California triggering health advisories urging residents to avoid contact with wild birds. [Source] [Source]

• The first human death of bird flu in the U.S. was reported, raising concerns about potential human-to-human transmission, though health officials maintain the risk is low currently. [Source]

Scientific Research & Developments

• Viral Evolution: A new study found significant variation in asymptomatic infection and antibody prevalence against H5N1 between sympatric seabird species, highlighting complex host dynamics. [Source]

• Vaccine Development:The U.S. government plans to build a new stockpile of bird flu vaccines for poultry as existing supplies dwindle amid the outbreak. Moderna's stock rose on hopes of developing a human vaccine. [Source] [Source]

Public Health Updates

• Current Risk Level: While the first U.S. human case raised concerns, the CDC maintains that the current risk to the general public's health from bird flu remains low. Experts advise taking precautions around wild birds and poultry. [Source] [Source]

• New Cases/Locations: New cases in wild birds were confirmed in areas like Austin, TX; Sacramento County, CA; and West Virginia. Commercial poultry outbreaks continue across multiple states. [Source] [Source] [Source]

• Transmission Patterns:Weather patterns and migratory bird activity are believed to be contributing factors in the virus' rapid geographic spread this season. [Source]

• Updated Guidance: Health authorities urge heightened biosecurity on poultry farms and avoiding contact with potentially infected wild birds. Some states are increasing public education efforts. [Source] [Source]

Economic Impacts

• Market Effects: The egg supply crunch is severely impacting prices and availability, with a ripple effect on businesses like restaurants and bakeries that rely on eggs as key ingredients. [Source] [Source]

• Agricultural Impact: Tens of millions of poultry have been culled to control the outbreak, disrupting supply chains. The USDA is enrolling more states in its milk testing program to monitor potential dairy herd infections. [Source] [Source]

• Consumer Impact: Consumers are facing higher egg prices and shortages, likely to persist in the coming months until the outbreak is controlled and flocks can recover. [Source] [Source]

Wildlife & Pet Safety

• Wild Bird Impact: The virus is taking a heavy toll on wild bird populations across the country, with numerous species impacted. Ecosystems in affected areas face disruptions. [Source]

• Pet Safety Measures: Veterinarians urge keeping domestic pets away from any potentially infected wild birds or poultry to prevent transmission. Proper hygiene and monitoring for symptoms is advised for pet owners. [Source] [Source] [Source]

Looking Ahead

• Expected Developments: Experts predict the outbreak's geographic spread and number of cases will continue increasing in the coming months as migratory seasons progress, before hopefully subsiding in warmer weather. [Source]

• Areas of Concern: Southern U.S. states like Florida and Texas, as well as major poultry producing regions, are being closely monitored as potential new hotspots if the virus continues its rapid proliferation. [Source] [Source]

Continued vigilance, research, and collaborative containment efforts will be crucial to safeguarding public health, protecting wildlife, and minimizing economic fallout as this crisis unfolds.

Stay tuned for further updates.

Stay Safe!

Jennifer