Milk from Dairy Cows in Texas and Kansas Tests Positive for Bird Flu

Reports have surfaced regarding the detection of bird flu in milk from dairy cows in Texas and Kansas. The virus, identified as the Type A H5N1 strain, is known to cause outbreaks in birds and, on occasion, infect humans. This has led to a significant impact on older dairy cows in these states, as well as in New Mexico, resulting in reduced lactation and appetite.

Reassurance from USDA

In response to these developments, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued a statement reassuring the public about the safety of the commercial milk supply and the low risk posed to consumer health. The agency emphasized that dairies are mandated to only permit milk from healthy animals into the food supply, with measures in place to divert or destroy milk from sick animals. Furthermore, the pasteurization process is highlighted as effectively eliminating viruses and bacteria, ensuring the safety of milk sold through interstate commerce.

First Known Case in Livestock

These occurrences follow the recent diagnosis of bird flu in goats in Minnesota, marking the first instance of the virus being found in U.S. livestock. While the affected dairy cows are observed to recover from the infection within a week to 10 days, the outbreak has raised concerns, given its divergent nature from previous bird flu outbreaks in poultry, which typically necessitate the culling of flocks.

The origins of the virus are believed to be linked to infected wild birds, as indicated by the USDA's findings from Texas. It is noteworthy that the virus has been detected in unpasteurized clinical samples of milk from sick cattle, as well as in nose and throat swabs from dairy farms in Texas and Kansas, signifying a rapidly evolving situation.

Industry Response and Biosecurity Measures

The food and drug regulatory bodies, including the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, are actively involved in the management of the situation, alongside authorities in the affected states. Additionally, the dairy industry has commenced enhanced biosecurity efforts, such as limiting property access and visitations, in a bid to mitigate the spread of the virus.

Expert Insights and Continued Monitoring

Amid these developments, experts have highlighted the likelihood of avian influenza affecting ruminants, underscoring the importance of continued monitoring and vigilance in the dairy industry. Efforts in states like Iowa to closely monitor the situation underscore the seriousness with which these developments are being taken.