The USDA, FDA, and CDC confirmed the bird flu (HPAI) has been found in two dairy herds in Texas and two dairy herds in Kansas, with presumptive positive test results in herds in Idaho, Michigan and New Mexico.
According to federal offi cials, bird flu killed more than 82 million birds in U.S. domestic flocks in the past two years, with the current outbreaks affecting a relatively small number of cattle and are not expected to affect milk supply or prices since pasteurization generally assures the safety of milk and dairy products.
Wild birds were believed to be the sources of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus, just as they are regarded as spreading the virus among domestic flocks; outbreaks began in February 2022.
In dairy cattle, HPAI manifests itself in reduced milk production and low appetite and primarily among older cows, said the USDA. The animals tend to recover in 10 to 14 days, according to officials.
Dairy farmers were and are advised to practice biosecurity, which includes limiting outside access to the farm, using a footbath to clean footwear before entering barns, minimizing movement of animals, checking herds for signs of illness, and isolating sick cattle.
According to the USDA, there are around 8.9 million dairy cows in the 24 leading dairy states, producing 17.4 billion pounds of milk in February. California, Wisconsin, Texas, Idaho, and New York State are the largest producers.