Spring is about new beginnings, the days become longer, warmer temperatures, and vibrant growth of flowers and plants. During this time we open up our windows for freshness and light to brighten up the room. Some people start spring cleaning as getting rid of the old and welcoming in the new. We are also celebrating Passover and Easter during this month. Easter this year may look a little different because of the rise in Bird Flu.
Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is a viral infection that primarily affects birds but can occasionally infect humans and other animals. It is important to ensure safety during events like Easter, where eggs play a central role in traditions such as decorating eggs and Easter egg hunts. With Bird Flu rising, currently the price of eggs is going up which has led to a shortage. Some grocery stores are limiting the amount of egg cartons per person due to the shortage. With our current situation some families are thinking about how this will affect Easter.
Easter is about family gatherings, festive meals, and various traditions such as egg hunts, dying eggs and the exchange of chocolate eggs. Dying eggs is a cherished activity for many families, often involving children to be creative. Traditionally the eggs are hard-boiled and then colored using various dyes, ranging from store-bought kits to homemade solutions using natural ingredients like beet juice or turmeric. The vibrant designs can be further enhanced with wax or by adding stickers and glitter. The decorated eggs often serve as a centerpiece for Easter egg hunts and this activity is all about creativity while bonding with family members.
As you can see, eggs play a large role in Easter but what can we do to keep our egg traditions going this year. There are ways to minimize the risk associated with bird flu such as:
- When handling eggs, it’s important to source eggs from healthy and well-regulated farms.
- Only buy eggs that have been refrigerated.
- Always wash your hands before and after handling raw eggs, and ensure eggs are thoroughly cooked, as heat can effectively kill the virus.
- Use eggs within 3 weeks of purchase.
- Refrigerate egg dishes such as casseroles and consume within 3 or 4 days.
- Avoid buying cracked eggs or eggs past their expiration date.
While the risk of contracting bird flu from eggs is low, particularly in non-outbreak regions, these precautions help maintain safety and peace of mind during this festive celebration. We want Easter to be safe while still celebrating family traditions.
References:
Christie, Amy. “Easy Natural Dye Easter Eggs: Use Beets for Red ⋆ Design Mom.” Design Mom, 16 Mar. 2016, designmom.com/easy-beet-dyed-eggs/.
Mills, David. “Is It Safe to Eat Eggs during the Bird Flu Outbreak?” Healthline, Healthline Media, 29 Jan. 2025, www.healthline.com/health-news/egg-shortage-bird-flu-outbreak.
Program, Human Foods. “Safety of Eggs during Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Outbreaks.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA, www.fda.gov/food/egg-guidance-regulation-and-other-information/questions-and-answers-regarding-safety-eggs-during-highly-pathogenic-avian-influenza-outbreaks. Accessed 10 Mar. 2025.
“What Is Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)?” Cleveland Clinic, 13 Dec. 2024, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22401-bird-flu.