Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Detected in Michigan

Earlier today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a Michigan dairy herd that had recently received cows from Texas. This confirmation is in addition to those made on Monday in two dairy cattle herds in Texas and two herds in Kansas.

USDA confirmed that the strain of the virus found in Michigan is very similar to the strain confirmed in Texas and Kansas that appears to have been introduced by wild birds. The department continues to conduct an epidemiological investigation into how the virus is being spread among dairy herds and so far has no conclusive evidence although transmission between cattle cannot be ruled out.

The USDA, CDC, and FDA affirmed again today that milk and dairy products remain safe to consume and there is no threat to human health. FDA also issued a public-facing Q&A on milk safety during HPAI outbreaks, found here.

USDA and partners continue to monitor this closely and have advised veterinarians and producers to practice good biosecurity.

Biosecurity Resources
The National Dairy FARM Program (NDFP) offers several valuable biosecurity resources providing dairy farmers with tools to keep their cattle and dairy businesses safe, including:

Biosecurity practices guidance is available here.

About the Illness in Cows
Dairy producers with affected cows are reporting a rapid onset illness in herds, specifically among older, lactating cows. Clinical signs include:

According to dairy farmers and veterinarians reporting on affected herds, most affected cows recover within two to three weeks.

Information for Affected Producers
Dairy farmers who observe clinical signs in their herd consistent with this outbreak, such as a significant loss of animal appetite and rumination or an acute drop in milk production, should immediately contact their veterinarian. Veterinarians who observe these clinical signs and have ruled out other diagnoses on a client’s farm should contact the state veterinarian and plan to submit a complete set of samples to be tested at a diagnostic laboratory. Animals may also be reported to APHIS’ toll-free number at 1-866-536-7593.

Your national and local dairy associations will continue to work across the industry with key stakeholders and monitor this situation. Please contact Jenny Crabtree at 614-890-1800 with any questions.