Phoenix, AZ - Avian Influenza Detected at Maricopa County Poultry Farm

PHOENIX, AZ – On May 26, 2025, the Arizona Department of Agriculture (AZDA) confirmed that poultry at a commercial farm in Maricopa County tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu. This marks the second reported case of avian flu in the county this month, raising concerns about the virus’s spread in Arizona’s poultry industry. However, officials emphasize that eggs produced after the onset of illness have not entered the food supply, ensuring no risk to consumers.

According to the AZDA, the affected birds began showing clinical signs of avian influenza on May 21, 2025. Samples were promptly sent to the Arizona Veterinary Diagnostic Lab and the National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL), with confirmation of the H5N1 strain received on May 27. The farm, which has not been publicly identified, has been placed under quarantine, and enhanced biosecurity measures are in place to contain the virus. Efforts to eliminate the virus are underway, including the depopulation of affected flocks.

“Consumers in Arizona and around the nation can remain confident in the safety and quality of eggs and egg products,” said Rachel Andrews, chief legislative liaison and public information officer for AZDA, in a statement. The agency is collaborating with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Arizona Department of Health Services, and Maricopa County Department of Public Health to manage the outbreak effectively.

This outbreak follows a similar incident reported on May 15 at another Maricopa County commercial egg farm, where over 2.58 million birds were affected, marking one of the largest avian flu outbreaks in the U.S. since February 2025. The earlier case, confirmed on May 19, also ensured that no contaminated eggs reached the food supply.

Avian influenza is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects birds, often leading to significant mortality in poultry flocks. Since January 2022, the ongoing H5N1 outbreak has resulted in the loss of over 171 million birds across the U.S., contributing to egg shortages and elevated prices. The virus is typically introduced to commercial farms through contact with infected wild birds.

Health officials note that the risk of human infection remains low, with no human cases reported in Maricopa County. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), human infections are rare and typically occur in individuals with prolonged, unprotected contact with infected animals. The AZDA and CDC continue to monitor workers at affected farms for symptoms, and no illnesses have been reported in connection with the recent cases.

The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has reported that H5N1 outbreaks have affected poultry in all 50 states since 2022, with recent detections in states including California, Ohio, and Michigan. The agency urges poultry producers to maintain strict biosecurity protocols to prevent further spread.

The AZDA’s swift response and coordination with federal and local agencies aim to mitigate the economic and public health impacts of the outbreak. While the situation underscores the challenges posed by avian influenza, officials reassure the public that Arizona’s egg supply remains safe for consumption.

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