An input-output model was used to estimate the potential economic impact of Avian Influenza (AI) on the Mississippi poultry industry. Research suggests consumer responses to the discovery of the H5NI virus (or AI) in birds have been immediate and dramatic, resulting in significant economic losses. To model this behavior, the authors used input-output analysis. This technique measures the effect of an outbreak of AI in the poultry industry on other sectors in the state that depend on this industry for incomes, jobs, sales, and taxes.