Maryland reports new case of deadly bird flu in backyard flock

In March 2025, the Maryland Department of Agriculture reported a confirmed case of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in a backyard flock located in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. This latest detection highlights ongoing challenges with bird flu in the state, as officials continue to monitor and react to outbreaks. The H5N1 strain, known for its virulence, has raised concerns over the health of poultry and the potential impacts on agriculture, especially with the ongoing egg shortage. Backyard flock owners in Maryland are mandated to register their flocks to assist in containment efforts and protect the poultry industry from disease transmission. Research efforts are also underway at the University of Maryland, where scientists are investigating the mutations and transmission methods of avian influenza. Dr. Andrew Broadbent and his team are employing innovative techniques using embryos to gain insights into how the virus affects birds. This research aims to understand how different strains evolve and how to better combat the outbreaks. According to Dr. Broadbent, the U.S. has not yet made a definitive decision on whether to implement vaccinations for chickens, emphasizing the necessity for preparedness in the face of potential future threats. Bird flu primarily spreads through wild bird migration, notably through contaminated waste that may come into contact with domesticated poultry. Dr. Jennifer Trout, the state's veterinarian, outlined that biosecurity measures at farms are crucial, as the virus can transfer from wild birds to farm animals easily. The Maryland agriculture department ensures testing of flocks prior to egg harvesting, aiming to prevent infected birds from entering the food supply. Symptoms of the illness in birds can include respiratory issues and decreased egg production, which have significant implications for both animal welfare and food availability. The ongoing threat of bird flu has inevitably led to an increase in egg prices across the United States. Over 148 million birds have been culled due to this virulent strain since its emergence in the country in 2022. The situation bears ongoing scrutiny from both agricultural and public health perspectives. This is a critical moment for Maryland, both in terms of emerging health threats to its poultry and the broader economic effects on egg production and prices. The continuing research efforts and regulatory measures by the Maryland Department of Agriculture are vital components of addressing the situation in the state's backyard farms.