HPAI in Perspective: Infections are way down this year compared to last despite a resurgence

We are in the midst of a current resurgence of High Pathogenic Avian Flu cases, and one of the latest outbreaks is taking out more than a million table egg layers in Iowa.

However, to put it into perspective, USDA data shows the impacts of HPAI this year are much less severe than last. 4.6 million birds have been culled this year, and in 2022, that number was almost 58 million. This has kept prices of poultry and eggs way down from what we saw last year, with eggs averaging $2 less a dozen than those record highs.

Experts are worried that the virus’ appearance this fall shows it learned how to survive the summer.

Related Stories
Declining cases prompt officials to ease nationwide poultry restrictions, though local measures remain available if needed.
Eric Weaver with UNL joins us to share about a promising new HPAI vaccine, early test results, next steps in development, and its potential impact on the livestock industry.
$2 million project tests fogging system to stop the virus in poultry facilities
More than 15 million birds were affected by bird flu, but fewer outbreaks are helping bring egg prices down
Bigger flocks are rebuilding egg and poultry supply.
As spring migration ramps up, USDA officials warn farmers about rising bird flu risks and urge stronger biosecurity measures. Resources are available through APHIS to help protect livestock.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom joins us to discuss China’s renewed access for U.S. beef facilities, the outlook for exports, and key conversations taking place at this week’s Spring Conference.
The work could apply to ready-to-eat meals and delicate foods such as freeze-dried berries.
Tennessee 4-H’ers Allie Paschall and Ramey Boone join us to discuss summer opportunities in 4-H, youth leadership development, and community involvement across Tennessee.
Brad Anderson with AARP joined us to preview AARP Live and discuss the importance of disaster preparedness and family planning.
North Dakota FFA President Cole Anderson joins us to discuss the upcoming state convention, leadership lessons, and what FFA means to students across the state.
Fred Nichols with Huma joins us to discuss the 4 R’s of nutrient stewardship and how farmers are adapting best practices in today’s evolving ag economy.
Agriculture Shows
Hosted by Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady and RFD News Markets Specialist Tony St. James, Commodity Talk delivers expert insight into the day’s ag commodity markets just before the CME opens. Only on RFD-TV and Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147.
A look at the news, weather and commodities headlines that drove agriculture markets in the past week.
Everything profits from prairie. Soil, air, water — and all kinds of life! Learn how you can improve your land with prairie restoration, cover crops and prairie strips, while growing your bottom line.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.