Nearly 1 million chickens have been culled at the nation’s second-largest egg-producing farm after bird flu was detected, underscoring the virus’s renewed threat to U.S. poultry supplies and food prices.
The farm, located in Iowa, began depopulating its flocks after highly pathogenic avian influenza was confirmed.
The loss represents a major blow to egg production, although officials have not indicated that the outbreak poses a food-safety risk to consumers.
Bird flu spreads rapidly among poultry, and infected flocks are typically destroyed to limit transmission.
The outbreak comes as producers and regulators continue monitoring the virus, which has affected commercial poultry operations and wild birds across the country.
Consumers may see temporary pressure on egg availability and prices if additional farms report infections. Health officials say properly handled and thoroughly cooked eggs remain safe to eat, while people should avoid contact with sick or dead birds.