In recent months, the rise of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 has put pressure on multiple agricultural sectors, including dairy farming. While avian flu typically affects birds, dairy farmers must remain vigilant, as recent outbreaks in dairy herds have shown that H5N1 can pose a serious risk to milk production. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are working closely with state authorities to manage and contain the spread of the virus. This post aims to raise biosecurity awareness for dairy farmers and explain how avian flu can affect your production.

Understanding H5N1 and Its Impact on Dairy Farms

While avian flu is most commonly associated with poultry, recent infections have been confirmed in dairy herds across the U.S. H5N1 infections have already been detected in multiple states, including Colorado, Iowa, Michigan, and Texas, prompting the USDA to expand its Emergency Assistance for Livestock (ELAP) program to provide financial relief to dairy farmers facing production losses.

The impact on dairy farms primarily stems from the removal of infected cattle from commercial milking. When a cow is diagnosed with H5N1, it must be taken out of milk production, and even after returning, its milk yield will be reduced for a period. According to the USDA, producers can expect a 21-day cessation of milk production, followed by a week of reduced output.

Biosecurity: Your First Line of Defense

As dairy farmers, protecting your herd from H5N1 starts with strong biosecurity practices. USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has reinforced guidelines that are critical to containing the virus. Dairy farmers must be especially cautious since cattle can contract the virus from contaminated environments, shared equipment, or human contact after exposure to infected birds.

Key biosecurity measures to follow include:

• Limiting access to your farm: Restrict visitors, especially those who have been in contact with poultry or other livestock operations.
• Disinfection protocols: Regularly clean and disinfect equipment, vehicles, and footwear used by anyone entering your farm.
• Pest control: Prevent wild birds from coming into contact with your livestock, as they can be carriers of H5N1.
• Testing and monitoring: Keep a close watch on herd health, and ensure any suspicious symptoms are reported for immediate testing by veterinary services.

Financial Assistance for Dairy Farmers

Recognizing the significant threat H5N1 poses to dairy production, the USDA’s expanded ELAP program offers financial support to farmers dealing with milk losses. Eligible producers must prove their herd has tested positive for H5N1 through USDA’s APHIS and provide a detailed loss report. Payments are based on lost milk production, with calculations accounting for both the time cattle are out of production and their reduced output upon return.

Farmers are encouraged to apply promptly, with the deadline for submitting losses falling within 30 days after the end of the calendar year.

What the Research Says: FDA’s Silo Study

To further understand the prevalence of H5N1 in the U.S. milk supply, the FDA recently launched the “silo study.” This six-week research effort, starting in October 2024, will collect raw cow’s milk samples from storage silos at dairy processing facilities. The goal is to determine how widespread the virus is within milk intended for pasteurization. While current pasteurization processes effectively eliminate the H5N1 virus, the study will generate data to inform national biosecurity strategies moving forward.

Moving Forward: Stay Vigilant

The potential consequences of H5N1 on dairy farms highlight the importance of staying vigilant and implementing strong biosecurity measures. By working closely with your local USDA Service Center and adhering to APHIS guidelines, you can reduce the risk of infection and protect your dairy herd from this devastating virus.

With support from the USDA’s ELAP program and ongoing FDA research, dairy farmers have the tools needed to mitigate the effects of H5N1. It is crucial to act swiftly and maintain a proactive stance in safeguarding both your herd and your production.

For more information on biosecurity measures and assistance programs, visit the USDA and FDA websites linked below:

• USDA Emergency Assistance for Livestock • FDA H5N1 Updates

By staying informed and prepared, dairy farmers can navigate the challenges posed by H5N1 and continue delivering safe, high-quality milk.