A recent test confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza in a backyard flock of birds in eastern North Carolina’s Dare County. The USDA requires killing infected birds to prevent disease spread. The flu affects chickens, turkeys, and other bird species, spreading through air, feces, and contaminated equipment.
The disease has driven up egg costs, with prices ranging from $4.59 to $8.69 per carton in parts of NC. In 2025, North Carolina has reported three more cases: two commercial turkey flocks and one commercial layer flock. The total number of affected birds reaches 166 million nationwide, according to the CDC.
Source: https://www.wbtv.com/2025/03/03/bird-flu-detected-eastern-north-carolina-flock