The U.S. Department of Agriculture has confirmed detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in dairy herds in six states: Texas, New Mexico, Kansas, Idaho, Michigan and Ohio. Most cases are the result of interactions with infected wild birds. Cases in Idaho and Michigan have been confirmed to be lateral transfers from cattle originating in Texas.
Florida Farm Bureau is monitoring the situation and will communicate any updates directly to its members.
Milk and dairy products remain safe to consume.
Dairies follow routine testing and strict protocols to ensure that only safe milk enters the food supply. In keeping with the federal Grade “A” Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO), milk from sick cows must be collected separately and is not allowed to enter the food supply chain. This means affected dairy cows are segregated, as is normal practice with any animal health concern, and their milk does not enter the food supply. As an added layer of safety, pasteurization (high heat treatment) kills harmful microbes and pathogens in milk, including the influenza virus.
For more information, members are encouraged to contact Florida Farm Bureau’s Ag Policy Department. For updates from the USDA, visit their website.
