Recently, the USDA confirmed HPAI outbreaks in dairy cattle in various states such as Texas, Kansas, Michigan, Idaho, Ohio, North Carolina, and New Mexico. The strain identified, H5N1, was traced back to wild bird populations introducing the virus to these herds.
Although Maryland hasn’t reported any HPAI cases in cattle, it’s crucial for farmers to uphold strict biosecurity measures. This includes reducing animal movements, isolating sick cattle, and quarantining new animals for at least two weeks before integrating them into existing herds.
Maryland Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks emphasized the state’s commitment to monitoring and responding to the situation to safeguard the local dairy and cattle industry.
Additionally, while a human case of HPAI in Texas was confirmed, the CDC deemed the overall risk to public health as low, assuring the safety of the milk supply. The FDA underlined that pasteurization ensures milk safety for consumers, urging caution when feeding milk from infected cows to animals.
Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is caused by an Influenza A virus in birds. The CDC maintains that the risk of transmission between birds, cattle, and humans remains low.
To contain the spread of avian influenza, the Maryland Department of Agriculture advises agricultural animal owners to:
1. Incorporate biosecurity practices regularly for animal protection.
2. Stay alert for signs of illness and be knowledgeable about infectious disease symptoms.
3. Report any suspected cases to the Maryland Department of Agriculture at 410-841-5810.
4. For guidance on outbreaks, commercial chicken growers and backyard flock owners can email MD.Birdflu@maryland.gov.
For more information and common queries about these developments, visit the provided link.
