Update on HPAI/H5N1 from DATCP for Dairy

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.  

Since December 12, 2024, DATCP has announced three cases of HPAI H5N1 in Wisconsin poultry flocks. In the past 30 days, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed 62 cases of H5N1 in livestock in two states. Access the map of confirmed cases.

DATCP and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) continue to work together to provide information on personal protective equipment (PPE). DHS advises those working with animals to take precautions and wear PPE per CDC guidance. Producers and processors can request PPE from the DHS medical stockpile. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the public health risk from H5N1 detections remains low. 

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).

April 24 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 April 24 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 infected animals.
  • 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 Poultry
• DATCP H5N1 in Dairy Cattle
• 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