A heated debate is unfolding between chicken and egg companies over whether to vaccinate flocks against the rising bird flu, which has led to egg shortages and soaring prices. The issue has sparked a sharp reversal in the industry’s stance, with some companies now advocating for a vaccine as a solution.
Egg companies believe that a stronger government response is necessary to address the issue, citing the need for vaccination as a way to prevent outbreaks. Dr. Craig Rowles, a vaccine adviser, supports this approach, stating that “the path we’re on right now isn’t sustainable” and that customers are paying $8 eggs.
The chicken industry, however, opposes the idea of a vaccine program, arguing that it would be overly expensive and pointless. They claim that the focus should be on trade issues rather than vaccination, pointing out that chickens raised for meat account for only 8% of current bird flu deaths.
The USDA has granted a conditional license to a vaccine but has not authorized its use on farms, leaving the debate unresolved. The agency is keeping its thoughts quiet, and experts speculate about the implications of a potential vaccine approval.
As Americans struggle with the rising cost of eggs, which have jumped 65% in just one year, the issue highlights the need for a unified response to address the bird flu outbreak. With the average American eating 277 eggs per year, the shortage is having a significant impact on consumers nationwide.
Source: https://www.the-sun.com/money/13597741/egg-shortage-chicken-companies-war-vaccine