Detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in dairy cows

A disease event is currently under investigation involving the detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in dairy cows presenting with decreased feed intake and significantly reduced milk production. WADDL as a USDA National Animal Health Laboratory Network Tier 1 laboratory is actively involved in the response to this incident. To date, confirmed cases are in Texas, Kansas, Idaho, New Mexico, Michigan and Ohio. The majority of cows recover in less than 2 weeks with few deaths. The significance of the detection of HPAI in dairy cattle is still being evaluated and considerable resources and coordinated effort at the state and federal level are underway (see link below). Information will be updated as we receive it.

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Detections in Livestock | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (usda.gov)

For additional dairy herd biosecurity guidelines from the American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP) please see the following document:

Dairy Biosecurity Recommendations – HPAI and More

It is suspected that wild bird exposure led to highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A H5N1 infected cattle in Texas and Kansas. A Michigan dairy reported HPAI in their herd after cattle were moved from a state that had reported HPAI in cattle. There are presumptive positive cases in three other states. The recommendations here […]

If you have questions regarding the disease event or testing in cattle in Washington, please contact the Washington State Veterinarians office for assistance.

Phone: (360)902-1878

ahealth@agr.wa.gov