Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)

Follow Best Practices to Prevent the Spread of Bird Flu

A multistate outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) bird flu in dairy cows was first reported in the U.S. on March 25, 2024. This is the first time that these bird flu viruses have been found in cattle. So far, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed infection in 3 people who worked with dairy cattle. CDC believes the current risk to the general public from bird flu viruses is low. However, people who work with infected birds or animals, including dairy cows, are at greater risk of contracting this virus.

The CDC has compiled a list of resources found here:https://www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/communication-resources/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/communication-resources/index.html

To learn more about how CDC is monitoring influenza data in people please visit their website here: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/h5-monitoring.html

Helpful tips if you are visiting a farm, follow these procedures:

• Do not enter any farm premises without permission from the owner.
• Whenever possible, make an appointment prior to traveling to the farm.
• Wear clean clothes and shoes on the day of the visit.
• When you arrive, park your vehicle at the end of the farm drive or on the roadside and use your cell phone to notify the owners of your presence and to receive instructions for entry. Or, set up an appointment ahead of time
• Let the farm owner know if in the previous five days you have been on another farm or if you’ve had contact with wild birds. Also let them know if you personally own or care for birds or poultry.
• Observe all of the farm’s instructions regarding biosecurity procedures.
• Do not enter animal housing areas without express permission from the farm owner.
• Do not touch animals unless that is part of your tasks on the farm.
• Immediately report anything unusual to farm owner, especially sick or dead birds.

The USDA has made emergency funds available more information can be found on this infographic and at their website: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/livestock

Documents with information on Financial Resources for Farmers and USDA Support for Producers with Affected Dairy Premises

Financial Resources for Farmers

USDA Support for Producers with Affected Dairy Premises

Last updated June 24, 2024