USDA Confirms HPAI Cases in Dairy Herds in Eight States

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in dairy herds in eight states: Idaho, Kansas, Michigan, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, South Dakota and Texas. The confirmations were made via milk samples as well as nasal swabs and viral genome sequencing of the affected herds. USDA is conducting similar tests in other states. 

Additionally, at least 18 states have restricted cattle movement: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Nebraska, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Utah and West Virginia. Rules vary by state.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that a person in the United States has tested positive for the HPAI (H5N1) virus, as reported by the Texas Department of Health and Human Services. According to the CDC, the person had exposure to dairy cattle in Texas presumed to be infected with HPAI. The patient reported eye redness (consistent with conjunctivitis) as their only symptom and is recovering. The patient was told to isolate and is being treated with an antiviral drug for flu.

USDA confirmed that the detections appear to have been introduced by wild birds; however, the department continues to conduct an epidemiological investigation into how the virus is being spread among dairy herds and, so far, has no conclusive evidence. In the meantime, USDA strongly recommends limited or cautious movement of cattle, testing before moving cattle and quarantining cattle upon arrival at their destination.

The USDA, CDC, and FDA continue to affirm that milk and dairy products remain safe to consume and the threat to the public remains low. Pasteurization (high heat treatment) kills harmful pathogenic bacteria and other microorganisms, including viruses inclusive of HPAI. Routine testing and well-established protocols for U.S. dairy also continue to ensure that only safe milk enters the food supply.