According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the price of eggs have risen of over 158% from this time last year in the northeast.

The USDA said that large white eggs are being delivered to warehouses at prices between $5.91 to $6.05 per dozen compared to between $2.15 to $2.34 at this time last year.

The USDA said this is because of bird flu that has affected over 100 million birds across the U.S. including egg-laying chickens that has led to a massive egg shortage in the northeast.

Th egg shortage has led to a price increase which has been impacting business in the capital region.

Alexi Lekkas is the owner of Alexis Diner in the Town of North Greenbush, and he said he has seen the price of eggs rise astronomically.

“We use about 15 cases of eggs in a week. You know, so a normal price of eggs is typically between $50 and $60. Now it’s up to $180. So, you’re talking $120 paying more for something that I’m selling for the same price,” Lekkas said.

Lekkas said he hasn’t risen prices at his diner yet but might be forced to if the egg prices don’t decrease.

“I’m hoping that this high will not last long,” said Lekkas.

The price increase is not just having an affect on local businesses but also consumers headed out to their local grocery stores.

“I’m a big fan of scrambled eggs, so this is hitting me hard,” said one shopper.

Another shopper NewsChannel 13 spoke to said she paid about $6 for eggs Friday and isn’t sure if she will continue to buy them at that price.