Widespread H5N1 Avian Influenza Outbreak Shakes Poultry Industry
Avian influenza strain H5N1, commonly known as bird flu, is wreaking havoc on poultry farms across the United States, leading to mass euthanizations and potential repercussions for the food supply and economy.
The outbreak has taken its toll particularly on Crescent Duck Farm, the only remaining duck farm on Long Island, which has been operated by the Corwin family since the 1640s. Doug Corwin, who now runs the farm, faces unimaginable losses. “I saw a flock one day, and the next day was lethargic, wasn't eating. It looked like something I'd never seen before,” he recounted, reflecting the sudden devastation of his flock.
Since the emergence of the current H5N1 strain, more than 148 million birds, including chickens, turkeys, and other farm birds, have been euthanized across the country. With the strain reaching the United States in 2022, it has not only affected domestic poultry but also spread to mammals, prompting concern among health experts.
“It's a staggering number, there is no doubt. But it is, and always has been, policy across administrations, with the USDA, to handle infections like this among poultry,” explained Jodie Guest, professor of epidemiology at Emory University. She emphasized the significant role of biosecurity measures to contain the outbreak.
Despite these efforts, H5N1 has spread to all 50 states by the end of 2023, transmitted mainly by wild birds. Guest pointed out the alarming shift seen in 2024, stating, “We saw bird flu jump from our poultry and wild birds to mammals, to cows. And this was a very startling change.”
While the total cases of human infections have been relatively low, rising from one case to 67 within months, health professionals are monitoring these developments closely. Most confirmed human infections have been found among individuals working closely with infected birds or livestock, primarily showing mild symptoms. “I feel very strongly human risk is still very, very low,” added Guest.
Yet, the situation has escalated, drawing the attention of political leaders and igniting discussions around food security. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt noted, “The Biden administration and the Department of Agriculture directed the mass killing of more than 100 million chickens, which has led to a lack of chicken supply … leading to shortages.” Corwin articulated frustration with the government’s approach, insisting, “A vaccine program is the only thing that's gonna get us out of this.”
Currently, the policy forbids vaccinating poultry due to fears it may hinder U.S. poultry exports, especially since many other countries have restrictions against vaccinated birds. Corwin lamented the complex orientations of poultry policies, saying, “The disease is becoming much bigger than the export situation because it’s getting out of hand right now.” His farm, previously producing up to one million ducks annually, now faces dire uncertainty.
The economic fallout from the outbreak is already evident. Egg prices have skyrocketed due to severe limitations on supply, compounding the stress felt by producers. Corwin, facing the loss of his entire flock, expressed conflicted feelings about the future of his farm and the livelihood of his workers: “It’s devastating, utterly devastating. It reminds me of losing both of my parents, the sudden grief.”
Even as the U.S. grapples with the immediate impacts of H5N1, the broader scale of bird flu's threat continues to evolve. With cases detected among various mammals, including dogs, cats, and domesticated livestock, experts are urging precaution and monitoring. Dr. David Cennimo, infectious disease specialist at Rutgers, shared insights on safety, underscoring low risks for consumers. “There is no known risk from eating poultry or eggs, because cooking kills the virus.”
The struggle against the avian flu highlights the heartbreaking intersection of tradition, agriculture, and public health. For Doug Corwin, the fate of Crescent Duck Farm hangs precariously as he determines the next steps for both his business and family legacy. “Think about what I've been through over the last two weeks,” Corwin reflected somberly, “It's just this feeling like you've lost something that's part of you.”
These challenges are set against the backdrop of fluctuated supply chains and economic pressures, leaving consumers vulnerable to soaring egg prices and anticipated shortages. The uncertainty surrounding H5N1 continues to affect farms and families nationwide, and the situation remains ever-evolving as the fight against this formidable virus wages on.