Cattle infected with avian influenza virus found in Texas, USA

Texas, USA

national health authorities TexasIn the United States, an infectious avian influenza strain is confirmed in an unidentified group of dairy cows. Currently, no contaminated dairy products have been found, while the search for additional animals infected with the disease continues. Sid Miller, director of the Texas Department of Agriculture, said “this newly confirmed infection in dairy cows is an unprecedented event” and more cases are expected to emerge in the coming days.

Sid Miller added, “While concerning, this outbreak is not currently expected to threaten commercial dairy supplies.” Many of the cases were discovered at three farms that specialize in dairy production, although Kansas and New Mexico Infections have also been detected on state farms. These infections are from a type of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) known as avian influenza.. The U.S. government noted that they have found no changes in the virus that “make it more likely to spread to humans.”

Texas health researchers say this is the first time an HPAI strain has been detected in dairy cows in that region of the United States. The infections were confirmed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the North American National Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. National authorities said milk from affected animals will be destroyed and will not enter the food supply..

texas tribune To be clear, according to health officials, the disease severely affects older and lactating cows. Experts estimate that infected herds will lose up to 40% of their milk production for up to ten days.. The USDA notes that approximately 10% of the cattle herd is infected and no animals have yet died from the disease.