The bird flu outbreak in California, which has severely impacted the state’s poultry industry since August, is showing signs of slowing down, according to state health and agriculture officials. Dr. Erica Pan, director of the California Department of Public Health, announced on Wednesday that there have been no new human cases since January. State Veterinarian Dr. Annette Jones also reported a decrease in the virus’s spread among poultry, with many flocks being released from quarantine and able to restock their birds.
The outbreak, which has led to skyrocketing egg prices, has been a significant concern across the nation. California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a statewide emergency in December due to the crisis. President Donald Trump also addressed the issue during a recent speech to Congress, highlighting the national implications of the outbreak.
Despite the positive news, the impact on the egg supply remains significant, with prices still high. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported that “California compliant” eggs were priced at $10.07 per dozen as of late February, up from $8.97 at the beginning of the year. The USDA has announced a $1 billion plan to combat the outbreak, which includes $500 million for biosecurity measures, $400 million for financial relief to farmers, and $100 million for vaccine development.
In the San Joaquin Valley alone, more than 750,000 birds have been culled in the first two months of 2025 to prevent further spread of the virus. The Valley has also reported the majority of California’s 38 human cases, with most infections linked to contact with infected dairy cattle or livestock.
While the situation is improving, officials warn that it may take time for egg prices to stabilize and for the poultry industry to recover fully. The USDA continues to work on measures to control the outbreak and support affected farmers.
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