A highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak is affecting layer flocks nationwide in the US, with over 28 million birds depopulated so far in 2025. The disease has been confirmed in Ohio and Indiana, with thousands of cases reported across the country.
In 2024, HPAI was detected in 34 commercial egg layer flocks, resulting in over 40 million layers lost to the virus. The US Department of Agriculture reports that nearly 1,000 dairy farms have found positive cases in their herds, complicating eradication efforts.
Egg producers are seeking more research on the introduction source of the virus to improve prevention methods on layer farms. A vaccine developed by Zoetis has received conditional approval from the USDA, but final approval is pending. Industry groups support the use of the vaccine, while some have expressed concerns about its impact on trade.
The ongoing outbreak highlights the challenges facing the US poultry industry in preventing HPAI spread.
Source: https://www.wattagnet.com/egg/article/15738148/hpai-roundup-2025-off-to-bad-start-for-us-layer-industry