Avian flu outbreak devastates Arizona's Hickman Farms, resulting in the death of 6 million birds—95% of its flock. CEO Glenn Hickman blames the preventable losses on the lack of access to avian flu vaccines, which are produced in the US but primarily exported. While the outbreak has temporarily halted operations and left hundreds unemployed, authorities assure consumers that the egg supply remains safe. Other Arizona farms are also affected, and the cleanup and restocking process for Hickman Farms is expected to take nearly two years. Human cases of bird flu remain rare.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.