The Government of Mexico approved administration of 140 million doses of avian influenza vaccine for commercial farms in areas of high risk in addition to parent and breeding flocks. Vaccination commenced in late January will continue through March.  The Government of Mexico recognizes the nutritional value of eggs with an annual per capita consumption of close to 380.  Consumers in Mexico have experienced an inflation rate of 7.9 percent annualized in common with the U.S. and other nations.

The approach by Mexico in introducing vaccination as an adjunct to traditional control measures is justified by epidemiologic and economic realities. The egg production industry in the U.S. is experiencing criticism for high retail prices by the media and politicians, including Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA).  Depopulation of 44 million hens during 2022 resulting in a reduction of 20 million hens at any time during the year, contributing to high prices responding to an imbalance between supply and demand.  High retail markups contributed to the escalation in price estimated at 70 percent from January 2021 through the corresponding month in 2022.