Almost 23 million birds have been killed in the U.S. across 24 states amid an outbreak of bird flu, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
The disease, also known as avian influenza, has been reported in 118 flocks: 72 commercial and 46 backyard.
A total of 22,851,072 birds have been culled.
The first confirmed cases of 2022 were in a commercial turkey meat flock in Dubois, Indiana, in early February, according to USDA data.
Wholesale prices for cartoned shell eggs have risen in recent weeks for various reasons, but also amid concerns that bird flu could affect the supply chain, the USDA said.
Eggs tend to cost more around the Easter period, but experts fear the outbreak could affect prices long-term.
The outbreak has coincided with a rise in people searching Google for information, including whether bird flu can be spread when a person eats eggs or chicken.
What is Bird Flu?
It is an illness caused by what are known as avian influenza A viruses, which are present in the droppings, saliva and nasal secretions of infected birds.
They spread naturally among wild aquatic birds, but can also infect other birds, as the current outbreak demonstrates.
Animals including ducks, chickens, turkeys, pigs, whales, horses, seals, dogs, and cats have been known to be infected.
Can Humans Catch Bird Flu?
It is rare for humans to catch avian influenza A viruses, but "sporadic" cases have been reported in the past, according to the CDC.
In its most recent update on the outbreak on March 7, the CDC said the risk to the general public is low, but people who may be exposed to the birds because of their jobs or hobbies are at higher risk of infection.
The CDC said: "Right now, the H5N1 bird flu situation is primarily an animal health issue."
People who have caught bird flu in the past have experienced a range of symptoms, from mild to severe, the CDC states.
While some infected people may show no symptoms, symptoms have included conjunctivitis, respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, sore throat, runny rose, muscle aches, headache, fatigue, as well as shortness of breath.
Less common symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or seizures.
Can You Catch Bird Flu From Eating Eggs or Chicken?
According to the USDA, there is no evidence that bird flu can be passed to humans who eat contaminated poultry products. In addition, when an infected flock is culled their eggs are also destroyed to prevent contaminated eggs from spreading the virus to other birds.
In its general advice on how to eat chicken safely, the USDA advises people follow four food safety steps:
- Clean: Wash hands and surfaces often.
- Separate: Separate raw meats and poultry from other foods.
- Cook: Cook all poultry to 165°F.
- Chill: Refrigerate promptly.
It also advises people refrigerate eggs as soon as possible after buying them to prevent bacteria from growing.
"To be safe, eggs must be safely handled, promptly refrigerated, and thoroughly cooked," the organization said.
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
About the writer
Kashmira Gander is Deputy Science Editor at Newsweek. Her interests include health, gender, LGBTQIA+ issues, human rights, subcultures, music, and lifestyle. Her ... Read more
