Rose Acre Farms, the second-largest egg producer in the U.S., has just confirmed multiple bird flu-related deaths at its Indiana facility.

Bird flu has been on the rise in the U.S. in recent years, and Rose Acre Farms' facility in Seymour, Indiana, has now become a victim of the latest wave. According to the Indy Star, the farm was recently tested for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), more commonly known as bird flu. The tests were conducted after several chickens started dying on Jan. 25. This latest news comes shortly after the Indiana Department of Natural Resources confirmed HPAI as the cause of death regarding Gibson County waterfowl in December 2024.

Is Bird Flu Dangerous to Humans?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), since 2022, many wild bird species, including terrestrial, seabird, shorebird, and migratory species, have been infected with the HPAI A(H5N1) virus. However, human infections are extremely rare, with few cases reported each year. The CDC considers the risk to the general public to be low, and mainly individuals with close, unprotected exposure to infected birds or contaminated environments are considered to be at greater risk.

How Important is Rose Acre Farms to Egg Production in the U.S.?

According to their website, Rose Acre Farms is a leading supplier of table eggs—including white and brown eggs. Additionally, the company produces several egg products, such as fresh, pasteurized liquid eggs from domestic chickens. Rose Acre Farms has been around since the 1930s and is the second-largest producer in the U.S., with farms located in seven different states. They've had prior experience with bird flu and told the Indy Star they are aware of the necessary steps to mitigate further spread.

WKDQ-FM logo
Get our free mobile app

What Does the Bird Flu Outbreak Mean for Egg Prices?

Egg Prices Plunge More Than 50% Since December Highs
Getty Images/Brandon Bell
loading...

Egg prices are soaring, and it's likely that this trend will continue well into the new year. Prices are already reaching record highs similar to the last major outbreak in 2023, when eggs averaged $4.82 per dozen. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's 2025 food price outlook, retail egg prices will continue to experience volatile month-to-month changes and are expected to increase by a total of 20.3%. You can stay up to date with the latest bird flu information via the CDC website.

Indiana Comic Convention Celebrity Guest List 2025

Indiana Comic-Con 2025 will feature a star-studded guest lineup with fan-favorite personalities from TV, film, comics, and more.

Gallery Credit: Jake Foster

Explore Mind-Blowing Photos of Indiana's Past

Feeling nostalgic? Step back in time and check out these vintage photos of the Hoosier State.

Gallery Credit: Jake Foster

10 Best Selling Cars in Indiana

There are a lot of options to consider when it comes to choosing a new ride. Here are the ones Indiana drivers prefer the most:

Gallery Credit: Jake Foster

More From WKDQ-FM