Delaware officials announced the state’s first presumptive case of H5 avian influenza in a commercial broiler flock located in Kent County. Initial testing at the University of Delaware’s Lasher Laboratory indicated a positive result, with confirmation pending further analysis by the USDA’s National Veterinary Service Laboratory.
The affected farm has been quarantined, and the birds on the property are being “depopulated” to prevent further spread of the highly contagious virus. The Delaware Department of Agriculture assured the public that no birds from the infected flock will enter the food supply.
This announcement follows a warning issued to poultry producers after sick and deceased snow geese at Prime Hook Beach in Sussex County tested positive for avian influenza last weekend.
Avian influenza is an airborne respiratory virus that spreads through nasal and eye secretions among birds. It can also be transmitted between flocks via contaminated equipment, infected poultry, and even the shoes of caretakers. The virus is known to impact chickens, ducks, turkeys, and certain wild bird species.
Officials have urged poultry owners to heighten biosecurity measures and remain vigilant to protect their flocks from infection. The situation is being closely monitored to minimize risks to Delaware’s poultry industry and wildlife.
Earlier this week, American Faith reported that egg production dropped 4% in November amid bird flu fears, Fox Business reported, noting that the price of eggs has also increased.
Citing data from the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, the report said that 8.92 billion eggs were produced in November, down 4% from last year. Of the eggs produced 7.68 billion were eggs for consumption and 1.24 billion were hatching eggs.
The number of egg-laying hens also declined, down 3% from last year.
In some California areas, the price of a dozen eggs is nearly $9, jumping 70% from November to December. Save Mart, whose eggs are about $7 a dozen, told ABC 30 Action News, “We are working diligently with our suppliers to provide and replenish quantities of safe, quality products to serve the needs of our shoppers.”
