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USDA Updates HPAI Testing Requirements for Interstate Dairy Cattle Movement

Good news for dairy producers! Effective immediately, lactating dairy cattle from unaffected states no longer need HPAI testing before moving across state lines.

Wyoming is not an affected state. To review current state status, follow this link to the national map. 

What's Changed

USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) updated the April 2024 Federal Order for interstate movement of lactating dairy cattle.

New Rule: If your state holds "Unaffected State Status" under the National Milk Testing Strategy, you do not need to test lactating dairy cattle for HPAI H5N1 before moving them across state lines.

View the complete updated guidance document

Key Points for Producers

• Cattle from unaffected states do not need testing before interstate movement
• States must conduct ongoing testing and surveillance to maintain Unaffected State Status
• Industry feedback from October 2025 drove this change
• USDA expects no impact to cattle trade or beef/dairy product markets

Food Safety Reminder

• HPAI H5N1 in dairy cattle poses no risk to consumers
• Pasteurization kills the HPAI virus
• Producers must divert or destroy milk from affected animals before it enters the food supply
• CDC considers public health risk low

Biosecurity Still Critical

This update doesn't change USDA's commitment to HPAI eradication. Strong biosecurity remains your best defense against disease introduction and spread.

APHIS Recommends:

• Follow enhanced biosecurity measures on all dairy operations
• Report immediately: Any livestock showing clinical signs or unusual wildlife deaths to your state veterinarian