Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Livestock
On March 25, 2024, a mystery illness that had been impacting dairy herds in the Texas Panhandle, New Mexico and Kansas was officially diagnosed as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). Also known as bird flu, the same strain has been affecting the U.S. poultry flock for the past two years. The AgWeb team is tracking the HPAI cases to keep you aware of any changes while providing information you can use to elevate your knowledge and what the evolving dynamics could mean to your operation.
Latest News on HPAI
According to FDA, the additional testing confirms the safety of the commercial milk supply with what it calls substantial data. The tests were done on 297 samples of milk from 38 states.
FDA says preliminary results of additional testing of more dairy products has shown pasteurization inactivates the H5N1 virus.
Federal officials are seeking to verify the safety of milk and meat after confirming the H5N1 virus in nine states since late March. The public health risk is low, but is higher for those exposed to infected animals.
The livestock industry needs a comprehensive, cohesive plan to address the virus. Producers, their employees and veterinarians need clear answers and support from U.S. agricultural leadership, moving forward.
International demand needs to pick up before U.S. milk prices can increase significantly.
It seems as if the dairy industry has taken HPAI in stride. Price fluctuations have been the result of buyers of the physical commodity on the CME daily spot market doing normal business.
Consistent biosecurity measures have always been needed on dairy farms. And, on the heels of several confirmed cases of the HPAI in dairy cattle this spring, the need for stepped-up biosecurity measures is essential.
Sid Miller, commissioner of the Texas Department of Agriculture, says the risk of highly pathogenic avian influenza impacting beef cattle in the state’s panhandle – where dairy cows have been infected – is minimal.
Livestock producers and veterinarians are urged to practice good biosecurity practices to prevent transmission of the disease. Five states have also issued restrictions on dairy cattle movement.
So far, HPAI has not had an impact on milk futures or the underlying cash prices. However, HPAI has not had an impact on milk futures or the underlying cash prices.