Bird flu has been detected at another Victorian farm. What does it mean for egg supply?

Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus has been detected again in northern Victoria, marking the third farm in the region to test positive for the virus. The virus detected this time is the H7N8 strain, and the farm is located in Yuroa, close to the other two farms where outbreaks have previously been identified. This latest detection underscores the ongoing challenges in containing the spread of the disease.

Meanwhile, consumers are reporting increased difficulty in purchasing eggs from supermarket shelves. Shoppers have taken to social media to complain about egg shortages, prompting supermarkets to continue implementing egg purchase limits. These limits are intended to ensure fair access for all customers during this period of reduced supply.

A Coles supermarket spokesperson stated that they are closely monitoring the confirmed avian influenza outbreaks in Victoria and will continue to work closely with suppliers to ensure customers can purchase eggs. To address supply issues, the supermarket will continue to maintain the purchase limits implemented since the first outbreak in Victoria in 2024, and urged customers to consider the needs of others in the community and only purchase the quantity they need. Woolworths supermarket also confirmed that a limit of two boxes of eggs per person remains in effect in all states except Western Australia.

The Victorian Department of Agriculture stated that the positive result at the farm was not unexpected, and they will continue to conduct urgent testing to determine other potential locations of the virus. Dr. Cameron Bell, Victoria's Acting Chief Veterinary Officer, stated that staff are on-site working closely with the industry to control and eradicate the virus. Control orders remain in effect, restricting the movement of poultry, poultry products, equipment, and vehicles within designated areas.

Dr. Bell emphasized that people located within the control or restricted areas must not move poultry, products (including eggs and manure), or equipment into, out of, or within the area without a permit; this includes selling or giving away poultry eggs, which must not leave your property. The H7 strain of avian influenza virus was first discovered at a poultry farm on February 8th. These measures are crucial to preventing further spread and protecting the poultry industry.