The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as state veterinary and public health officials, are continuing to investigate Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) among dairy cows, an illness that is causing decreased lactation, low appetite, and other symptoms. The disease has been detected in dairy herds in Texas and Kansas, and the USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has now confirmed the presence of HPAI in a Michigan dairy herd that had recently received cows from Texas. Note: The USDA has confirmed that there is no threat to human health and milk. Dairy products remain safe to consume.
Keep reading for the latest updates. We will continue to share information as this situation evolves. You can join the following two calls this week to learn more:
- Monday, April 1 (Today): The National Milk Producers’ Federation (NMPF) and the National Dairy FARM Program will be hosting an online seminar called “Navigating HPAI in Cattle: What Dairy Farmers Need to Know” on Monday, April 1 from 2 to 3:15 p.m. CT. Learn more and register here.
- Wednesday, April 3. The Center for Dairy Excellence is hosting a PA Dairy Industry Conference Call on Wednesday, April 3 at 12 p.m. ET. Our panelists, including Dr. Alex Hamberg, our state veterinarian, will provide updates on the situation and what it means for Pennsylvania dairy farmers and service professionals. Learn more and view connection details.
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture is continuing to monitor Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) detected in dairy cattle in the Midwest and Southwestern United States. No cases have been identified in Pennsylvania.Any cattle owner who sees clinical illness in their cattle consistent with HPAI infection should consult their veterinarian to examine the animals and create a diagnostic plan. Please use good biosecurity when moving cattle between premises or between populations. Minimize contact between species (For example, cattle and poultry) and use good biosecurity.
Additional updates will follow as more information becomes available. Please see the following federal updates below.
Alex Hamberg VMD, PhD | Director
Department of Agriculture | Bureau of Animal Health and Diagnostic Services
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