The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has introduced a $1 billion initiative to combat the bird flu crisis, which has led to a severe egg shortage and skyrocketing prices in the US. The plan includes financial support for poultry farmers, funding for research into treatments and vaccines, and measures to increase egg imports temporarily. Egg prices have reached an all-time high, nearly doubling in a year, impacting consumers and businesses alike. The H5N1 avian flu outbreak has affected over 1,600 poultry flocks across the US, resulting in the culling of more than 160 million birds. Despite criticism of previous policies, the USDA will continue its culling approach while investing in biosecurity, compensation for farmers, and vaccine development. Industry experts have welcomed the plan, though some advocate for faster vaccine deployment. The USDA predicts a further price surge this year but expects prices to stabilize within a year or two. — news from Al Jazeera English
