Update on HPAI (H5N1) from DATCP

DATCPanimals@wisconsin.gov | (608) 224-4872 | datcp.wi.gov  

Update on HPAI (H5N1) in Dairy Cattle

The following is an update on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) caused by the influenza virus H5N1.  

In the past 30 days, the USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed the presence of HPAI (H5N1) in 263 dairy herds in two states. No detections of HPAI (H5N1) in Wisconsin cattle, poultry, or wildlife have been detected.

Biosecurity and Monitoring

• Producers should continue to enhance biosecurity and monitor disease in their herds.
  • Access resources for cattle, poultry, and swine biosecurity practices.
• Report herds with unexplained symptoms to DATCP at (608) 224-4872 (business hours) or (800) 943-0003 (after hours and weekends).

Federal Order

• Lactating dairy cattle must test negative for Influenza A virus at a National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN) lab before interstate movement.
• A subset of 30 cows must be tested for groups moving together.
• Access the Federal Testing Order.
• Access the federal guidance.

Wisconsin Requirements

• Lactating dairy cattle must test negative for Influenza A virus before moving to fairs or exhibitions.
• Access the Wisconsin Cattle Testing Order.
• Access the FAQ.

Human Health Precautions

• Human cases of H5N1 have been reported following exposure to dairy cattle.
  • Access the confirmed cases and exposure sources for human infections.
• Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) advises those working with animals to take precautions and wear PPE per CDC guidance.
  • Request PPE from Wisconsin DHS medical stockpile.
• According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the public health risk from H5N1 detections remains low.

Food Safety

• The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and USDA continue to emphasize that the commercial milk supply is safe because of the pasteurization process.
• USDA is also confident that the meat supply is safe.

Resources:

• DATCP HPAI (H5N1) in Dairy Cattle
• Biosecurity Resources for Events
• USDA Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-raised Fish Program (ELAP)
• USDA Expanded Support for Affected and Unaffected Producers
• USDA Dairy Herd Status Program