NY Academy of Sciences The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus, commonly known as bird flu, is making headlines and leaving its mark on grocery shelves. Just last week, I visited two supermarkets, both completely sold out of eggs. Over at a corner bodega in NYC, a dozen eggs were going for a jaw-dropping $16.99. Before bird flu hit, that same dozen cost only a fraction of that. It’s clear that the ripple effects of this virus go beyond the headlines—right down to our daily menu.
Initially spreading among domestic waterfowl, the virus has now migrated to commercial poultry, mammals, cattle, and a host of other animals across the United States. As of February 26, 2025, there have been 70 confirmed, sporadic human cases in the United States. Exposures have been largely tied to dairy herds (58.6%) and poultry operations (34.3%), with smaller proportions linked to other animal exposures (2.9%) and unknown sources (4.3%). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently assesses the public health risk as low, with no documented human-to-human transmission, but vigilance remains essential.
Public health agencies are closely monitoring the situation, individual vigilance, such as following proper food safety protocols and being mindful of interactions with pets and wildlife, remains essential in preventing infection. While there is growing concern about the spread of H5N1 to humans, practicing a few hygiene protocols should help to mitigate risk.