Bird Flu Outbreak at U.S. Egg Producer

SOURCE www.cbsnews.com
The largest producer of fresh eggs in the U.S. temporarily halted production at a Texas plant after bird flu was found in chickens. Bird flu was also detected at a poultry facility in Michigan. Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. destroyed approximately 1.6 million laying hens and 337,000 pullets in Texas. No known risk to eggs currently on the market. A human case in Texas marked the first known instance of a person catching this version of bird flu from a mammal.

Key Points

  • Bird flu detected at a Texas plant and a poultry facility in Michigan.
  • Cal-Maine Foods destroyed a portion of its flock in Texas.
  • No known risk to eggs on the market; safe to eat if handled and cooked properly.
  • Human case reported in Texas, first known instance of transmission from a mammal.

Pros

  • Cal-Maine Foods is taking precautionary measures to mitigate the risk of future outbreaks.
  • No eggs currently on the market are associated with bird flu risk.
  • Properly handled and cooked eggs are safe to eat.

Cons

  • Approximately 1.6 million laying hens and 337,000 pullets were destroyed in Texas.
  • Human case reported in Texas, marking the first known instance of a person catching this version of bird flu from a mammal.