Story perspectives

Massive Bird Flu Outbreaks Hit U.S. and Europe

11/1/2025

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed HPAI outbreaks in California and Illinois, affecting thousands of birds.
Since September, nearly 7 million farmed birds have died, including 1.3 million turkeys.
Missouri has reported multiple bird flu cases, with St. Louis County highest, as the virus mutates to affect dairy cattle.
In Europe, outbreaks surged, prompting vaccination campaigns in France and monitoring by World Health Organization.

History

Historical Context

The 2015 avian influenza outbreak in the U.S. led to the culling of over 50 million birds, primarily affecting the Midwest and costing the poultry industry $3 billion. Current HPAI outbreaks in California and Illinois have impacted nearly 7 million birds since September 2023, underscoring the ongoing threat of the virus and the need for enhanced monitoring and vaccination strategies.

1 of 2

Story summary

U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed HPAI outbreaks in California and Illinois, affecting thousands of birds.
Since September, nearly 7 million farmed birds have died, including 1.3 million turkeys.
Missouri has reported multiple bird flu cases, with St. Louis County highest, as the virus mutates to affect dairy cattle.
In Europe, outbreaks surged, prompting vaccination campaigns in France and monitoring by World Health Organization.

1 / 2