May 12, 2015

Agricultural officials in Iowa are worried that a widespread outbreak of avian influenza, also called bird flu, will devastate egg and poultry production in the state. Iowa is the leading producer of eggs in the United States, and the state has been hit hardest of the 13 states where avian influenza has been reported. Million of turkeys and chickens have been destroyed in Iowa in efforts to stem the outbreak. Egg production has dropped by 40 percent, mostly caused by measures taken to counter the virus.

Chickens and turkeys are being destroyed by the millions in poultry-producing states facing an outbreak of avian flu. © David R. Frazier

Avian influenza is caused by the type A influenza virus. Waterfowl, including wild ducks, sea birds, and shore birds, naturally carry this virus but generally do not develop the disease. But infected domestic birds, such as chickens, turkeys, and ducks, are likely to develop a rapidly fatal form of the illness. The virus spreads through waste matter from infected birds and through contaminated water, feed, and such equipment as cages and the trucks used to transport birds. Once avian influenza is introduced into a flock, it can spread quickly. There is no treatment for the disease  and infected flocks are usually killed to prevent its spread.

The economic effects of the avian influenza outbreak will extend beyond higher prices for poultry and eggs. Agricultural officials point out that as farmers’ flocks are destroyed, there is less demand for feed grain and less work for meat- and egg-processing plants. In addition, countries that import eggs and poultry from the United States may impose trade restrictions to prevent the disease from spreading. Local, state, and federal government agencies are working to end the outbreak. Although the economic damage is substantial, once the outbreak is controlled, Iowa farmers expect to replenish their flocks in short order, as the birds reproduce and grow quickly.

Avian influenza is occasionally transmitted to humans, usually among those who work closely with infected animals. However, the type of avian influenza behind the current outbreak does not infect people.

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