US confirms presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza in Nebraska dairy herd
The case was detected through a state-led traceback and investigation following an initial finding in milk samples taken for pre-distribution surveillance, a procedure required under a federal order issued by the USDA in April 2024.
This is the first known case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in cattle in Nebraska.
Since the outbreak began in March 2024, infections have been reported in dairy cattle in 17 states, although the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) noted that cases have remained confined to a small number of states this year.
APHIS indicated it is working closely with the Nebraska Department of Agriculture to conduct additional on-farm investigations, conduct testing, and gather more epidemiological information to better understand this detection and prevent further spread of the disease.
The agency also urged all dairy farms to strengthen biosecurity measures, especially in light of the impending fall bird migration season.
There is no concern that this circumstance poses a risk to consumer health or affects the safety of the commercial milk supply, the USDA stated.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has confirmed that pasteurization is effective in inactivating the H5N1 virus, ensuring the safety of pasteurized dairy products.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said the H5N1 viruses circulating in poultry and dairy cattle nationwide are thought to pose a low risk to the general public, but warned that people with occupational or recreational exposure to infected birds or mammals are at greater risk and should take appropriate precautions.
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