USDA Enhances Milk Testing Amid H5N1 Bird Flu Concerns In Dairy Industry

Gloved hand pipetting liquid into a tray.

The USDA expands its National Milk Testing Strategy to 28 states, covering 65% of U.S. milk production, in response to the growing threat of H5N1 bird flu in the dairy sector.

At a Glance

USDA’s National Milk Testing Strategy now includes 28 states, up from initial 6
Over 110,000 milk samples tested since March 2024 outbreak
California and Texas are the only states with active H5N1 detections in dairy cattle
USDA working on vaccine development for poultry and bovine species

USDA Expands National Milk Testing Strategy

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has significantly expanded its National Milk Testing Strategy (NMTS) to combat the spread of H5N1 bird flu in the dairy sector. The program, which initially launched with six states, now encompasses 28 states, representing 65% of U.S. milk production. This expansion marks a crucial step in the nation’s efforts to monitor and control the potential spread of avian influenza in dairy cattle.

The newly added states to the NMTS include Alabama, Arizona, Delaware, Iowa, Georgia, Kansas, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Utah, and Virginia. This expansion demonstrates the USDA’s commitment to comprehensive surveillance and rapid response to potential outbreaks.

The USDA is starting a mandatory milk testing program to see how widespread the bird flu virus is on dairy farms https://t.co/6FWVjQV2ID

— STAT (@statnews) December 6, 2024

Testing Strategy and Current Situation

The NMTS involves a five-stage testing activity, with California currently in Stage 3 due to its rapid response measures. Since the outbreak began in March 2024, over 110,000 milk samples have been tested, highlighting the scale and intensity of the surveillance efforts. Currently, California and Texas are the only states with active H5N1 detections in dairy cattle, underscoring the importance of continued vigilance and testing.

“Across the country, a strong network of public and private veterinarians, as well as state and local agriculture and health officials, have been working hand-in-hand with the USDA to make the National Milk Testing Strategy as robust a weapon as possible in our fight against H5N1, and to ensure farmers have the information and tools they need to protect their businesses, their families, their workers, and ultimately their communities,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.

The USDA’s approach builds on its successful precedent of bulk milk testing, which was instrumental in eradicating brucellosis. This experience provides a strong foundation for the current efforts to monitor and control H5N1 in the dairy industry.

Vaccine Development and Biosecurity Measures

In addition to testing, the USDA is actively working on vaccine development for both poultry and bovine species to combat H5N1. Seven vaccine candidates for dairy cattle have been approved for field safety trials. However, it’s important to note that current HPAI vaccines do not fully match the virulent H5N1 strain in the ongoing outbreak.

The USDA continues to emphasize the importance of strong biosecurity practices and offers support programs for producers. These measures are crucial in preventing the spread of H5N1 and protecting the health of both animals and humans involved in the dairy industry.

Broader Impact and Future Preparedness

While the focus has been on dairy cattle, the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has also confirmed more poultry outbreaks in six states, including a large layer farm in North Carolina and a commercial turkey farm in Indiana. Backyard poultry flocks in Florida, Iowa, Minnesota, and West Virginia have also been affected by the virus, highlighting the widespread nature of the H5N1 threat.

In response to the evolving situation, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced over $300 million in funding for H5N1 response efforts. This substantial investment underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the potential public health implications of the outbreak.

Vilsack also said the “USDA remains fully committed to working with farmers and our public health partners to evolve our strategy based on our latest findings so we can keep people and animals safe from this virus.”

As the situation continues to develop, the USDA’s expanded National Milk Testing Strategy remains a critical tool in the nation’s arsenal against H5N1. By combining rigorous testing, vaccine development, and strong biosecurity measures, the USDA aims to protect the dairy industry, ensure food safety, and safeguard public health in the face of this challenging avian influenza outbreak.