Tag: H5N1

The Kansas Department of Agriculture has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in two game bird operations in Doniphan and Rooks counties. Affected premises are quarantined, and birds will be depopulated to prevent disease spread. Poultry owners are urged to enhance biosecurity due to heightened risks during fall migration.

A Kansas State University study links milking practices to the transmission of bovine H5N1 influenza, first detected in the U.S. in spring 2024. Researchers found that, unlike infected calves, dairy cows experienced severe infections through milking processes, emphasizing the need for improved sanitary measures to prevent disease spread in the cattle industry.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced voluntary pilot programs in four states to test bulk milk tanks on dairy farms for bird flu. This aims to facilitate interstate herd shipping and improve virus tracking. The FDA is also expanding H5N1 testing in dairy products. Public risk remains low, but worker risk is elevated.

The highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreak is affecting dairy farms in the US, with a few cases in humans. Public health officials and government agencies are closely monitoring and responding to the situation. The virus has spread to mammals, including domestic pets, and caution is advised when handling farm animals and interactions with wild birds.