Maintaining good biosecurity can reduce the risk
What started as only an avian infection has now spread to dairy cattle. In March, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was discovered at a Texas dairy. The infectious virus has spread to 12 confirmed states: Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, Ohio, South Dakota, Texas and Wyoming.
According to the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, HPAI is a virus that infects birds with type A influenza virus. The virus is typically carried by wild migratory birds or waterfowl that show little to no sign of the infection. However, the virus is contagious to domestic bird species, often causing illness or death.
Now, the sickness has begun to infect dairy cattle. Multiple factors have contributed to this new infection in dairy cattle. One of the causes of illness is interactions with wild bird populations, as they can be carriers. Additionally, since dairy cattle live in tighter quarters, there is an increased risk of infection.
“Right now, I would say the risk of it getting into Ozark dairies is relatively low,” Dr. Jermey Powell, accredited DVM and PhD at the University of Arkansas, said.
While H5N1 has yet to be detected in dairies in the Ozarks, there are precautions producers should take to help diminish the possibility of an outbreak.
“Minimizing risk really boils down to maintaining good biosecurity,” Powell expressed.
Powell suggests decontaminating anything that could potentially bring HPAI to the farm. This could include traffic control for vehicles or equipment that come on the farm. Also, be mindful of what is on your person, boots, or clothing, it all could be contaminated.
On the farm, limiting exposure to non-agricultural animals, like wildlife, can help protect the animals. Consider restricting habitat, food, or water sources that could be aiding the co-mingling of wildlife and livestock.
“Some symptoms you may see are depressed appetite, fever and decreased milk production. If [producers] identify a cow that is positive, they need to work with their herd veterinarian. Then isolate the cow and test the other animals in that group,” Powell explained.
To combat the spread, The U.S. Department of Agriculture has issued a federal order requiring testing for and reporting of HPAI in livestock. This order requires any dairy cattle to be tested before interstate travel.
The Food and Drug Administration notes that buyers should not worry about consuming commercial dairy products. Milk supply from infected cattle is removed from circulation and destroyed for safety. Further, the pasteurization process the dairy goes through is effective at killing viruses. However, consumers should be wary when consuming raw, unpasteurized dairy products that may have come into contact with the infection.
If producers have any concerns or notice signs of avian influenza in their herd, they are advised to contact their herd veterinarian or county extension agent for more information.
