Avian Flu Detected in Dairy Cattle Across Multiple States

The USDA, FDA, and CDC are investigating cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in dairy cattle in several states, with confirmed detections in Texas, Kansas, and Michigan. The virus strain is similar to that introduced by wild birds and does not appear to be more transmissible to humans. Measures are being taken to monitor and contain the spread of the illness, with affected animals recovering after isolation. There is no concern about the safety of the commercial milk supply, as products are pasteurized before entering the market. The FDA recommends against the sale and consumption of raw milk from symptomatic cows and encourages heat treatment before feeding to calves. The impact on milk supply and prices is expected to be limited, and efforts are underway to minimize the impact and risk to farmers, farmworkers, consumers, and other animals.