Bird flu is devastating poultry populations, driving up egg prices—and threatening lives. #UMD experts are tackling the virus from every angle, working to understand its origins and curb its spread. Over 168 million birds have either died of the virus or been culled over the last three years. Most of those were egg-laying hens, which drove the average price of eggs up more than 60% by the end of 2024, with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) predicting a 50% spike in 2025. But long before most of us had heard of bird flu, #UMD researchers were already working to better understand it and curb its spread. umdextension specialists are developing and disseminating the best biosecurity guidance to keep farms secure. Epidemiologists are tracking the virus’ path into and across the country. Lab researchers are using novel methods to understand the origins of avian influenza itself. As the virus spreads to other animals, a cattle vaccine developed by #UMD researchers and the USDA coul...