Egg prices surge with avian flu partly to blame

CUMBERLAND, R.I. (WLNE) — Rhode Island officials continue to track the bird flu after confirming a case last month, the first case in the state since 2022.

Officials say it was in a noncommercial farm flock in South County and about 40 infected birds were euthanized to prevent the spread.

With the state located along a major migratory bird route, experts warn outbreaks could continue.

“This strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza has been circulating in wild birds since early 2022,” said Scott N. Marshall, DVM, a Rhode Island state veterinarian.

“It has been found in all 50 states, including Rhode Island, and peaks during migration periods. Unfortunately, this is one of the worst peaks we’ve seen, leading to widespread poultry infections and supply shortages.”

The outbreak is partly blamed for pushing egg prices higher, and local restaurants are feeling the impact.

Brittney Elliott, owner of Everybody’s Favorite, a local restaurant that just opened last week, said it’s been a tough first week in business.

One of her biggest challenges is the cost of eggs.

“Right now, we’re paying about $230 per case and spending at least $1,000 a week on eggs alone. I had to raise menu prices the day before we opened just to keep up,” said Elliot.

According to the CDC, the public health risk remains low, with no person-to-person spread reported in the U.S.

Officials have said that the food supply remains safe.

“For poultry owners, the biggest risk factor is contact with wild waterfowl,” said Scott Marshall.

“We strongly encourage strict biosecurity, keeping domestic birds away from ponds, avoiding shared equipment and disinfecting anything that enters poultry areas to prevent the virus from spreading.”

Elliott said she’s committed to keeping prices as steady as possible for customers, but if costs keep rising, more changes may be necessary.

“I don’t want to keep raising prices, but if that’s what it takes to stay open, I may not have a choice.”