States where outbreak has occurred.
Avian Influenza Outbreak Update
Outbreak Overview:
- Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, H5N1 strain, is infecting and causing disease in dairy cattle
- First identified in Texas in March of 2024 and has since then spread to states including New Mexico, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, South Dakota, Michigan, Ohio, and North Carolina.
- Disease in Dairy Cattle includes signs of mastitis, decreased milk production and fever.
- Cats and rodents have also shown to be affected by the HPAI strain, resulting in neurologic signs and death.
- Minimal human cases have been identified. People infected show flu-like symptoms and have all been in close contact with cattle on the positive farms.
Disease Management and Resources:
- Protocols and mandates developed by USDA APHIS
- Updated information available below including daily case updates.
Regional Impact:
- No cases in New England, New York, or Pennsylvania; closest cases in North Carolina and Ohio.
Food Safety Assurance:
- Dairy and beef products are safe; pasteurization inactivates the virus.
- Beef products tested and free from the virus.
- Beef and pasteurized dairy products are 100% safe
Travel Restrictions and Testing:
- Travel restrictions for lactating dairy cows; negative avian influenza test required within 7 days of travel.
- All cattle traveling between any locations need a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI)
- Contact your veterinarian for more information or with any travel related questions
Biosecurity Measures:
- Recommended practices include quarantining animals for 2 weeks when arriving in premises and maintaining strict cleanliness.
- Change clothes and boots between farms
- Changes gloves, sleeves, and needles between cows
- Practice clean milking procedures
Symptom Monitoring and Veterinary Care:
- Monitor for symptoms such as reduced milk yield, mastitis, and flu-like signs in dairy cattle.
- Report increased death loss in poultry, wild bird populations, farm/barn cats, or rodents
- Contact a veterinarian immediately if unusual symptoms or dead animals are found.
Continued Vigilance and Relationship with Veterinarians:
- Importance of vigilance and maintaining a strong relationship with veterinarians.
- If you do not have a regular and consistent relationship with a veterinary practice, start one today!