The growing global shortage of eggs, caused by outbreaks of avian influenza, has led Turkey, one of the main exporters of this product, to impose tariffs on its exports. This measure aims to control domestic prices and ensure local supply, but it could lead to tariff increases in other countries due to high international demand for eggs.
In the United States, the country is facing its worst outbreak of avian influenza in history, resulting in a drastic reduction in poultry production. In light of this situation, the Department of Agriculture has announced the need to import between 70 and 100 million eggs in the coming months to meet domestic demand. However, Turkey's imposition of export tariffs could affect this trade flow.
Turkey's imposition of tariffs could trigger trade tensions, especially with countries that rely on its exports to supply local shortages. Furthermore, this measure could influence international egg prices, impacting both consumers and producers in various regions.
In the United States, the first death from avian influenza in the country has been reported, a patient from Louisiana who contracted the virus by being exposed to poultry and wild birds. Although the risk to public health remains low in general, health authorities have emphasized that people who work with birds or have recreational exposure to them are at greater risk. As of December, 65 human cases of avian influenza had been recorded in the country, with concerning mutations that could make the virus potentially more transmissible among humans.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have identified that individuals over 65 years old are at higher risk of developing severe complications from avian influenza. Analyses show that the virus has mutated in some patients, posing additional challenges in controlling the disease.
