New numbers show Avian Influenza is not slowing down.
In total, nearly 38 million birds are infected so far, which is up about 3 million since our last report. The latest cases led to depopulation across Michigan, Washington, Idaho, Minnesota and Pennsylvania.
Avian Influenza is worrying more than just farmers. A Purdue University report shows 60 percent of consumers are worried about its impact on food prices.
This, after the cost of eggs went up more than 10 percent and poultry prices climbed three percent in April. This is especially hurting rural households as 23 percent of these families face food insecurity. That is significantly higher than the country’s average of 14 percent.
Related:
Michigan reports its first case of HPAI in a commercial poultry flock
USDA’s APHIS is enhancing HPAI response efforts thanks to a funding source
Consumer Price Index sees significant unexpected jump as farmers were hoping inflation had peaked
