In recent weeks, the dairy industry in certain regions of the United States have been confronted with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) affecting dairy cattle. As concerns arise, it’s imperative to understand and disseminate accurate and timely information to provide reliable resources for both producers and the public.  

What’s Happening? 

According to the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) an agency of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), there have been reported cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) affecting dairy cattle in certain areas of the U.S. For the most up-to-date information on the HPAI situation in livestock, refer the USDA-APHIS website. 

Information for Producers: 

Producer’s looking for specific guidance on managing avian influenza in livestock can turn to the following resources: 

1. Information for producers to get details about this developing situation can be found on this USDA-APHIS website. This website provides information about states where the virus has been detected, latest news, and specific biosecurity information.  
2. State Departments of Agriculture and State Veterinary Offices: State-level departments of agriculture and state veterinarians will have information on the situation and response. Specific information from the Colorado Department of Agriculture and the Colorado State Veterinarian for cattle producers can be found here. 

General Information Resources: 

For members of the public seeking to understand avian influenza and its implications, these credible sources can offer valuable insights: 

1. The USDA-APHIS website is an excellent source for the most up-to-date information about HPAI and its detection in livestock. On this site, individuals can find information about which states have confirmed cases, latest news, Center for Disease Control and Prevention resources, and Food and Drug Administration resources.
2. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): The FDA website states that “at this time, there continues to be no concern that this circumstance poses a risk to consumer health, or that it affects the safety of the interstate commercial milk supply because products are pasteurized before entering the market.” Additional information from the FDA regarding milk safety can be found here.  
3. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The CDC provides valuable insights into avian influenza, including its impact on human health and strategies for prevention. For more information, visit their website. 

As stewards of animal health and welfare, AgNext remains committed to supporting our stakeholders and constituents with reliable information and resources. Our team of experts will continue to monitor this ongoing situation and we will update these resources as necessary.  

Updated 4/12/2024