Dairy cows can build immunity to HPAI, according to latest research

New research shows that dairy cows develop an immunity to High-Path Avian Flu (HPAI) after initial infections.

The breakthrough comes after cows exposed through an initial infection showed signs of protection against a secondary exposure. Cows exposed for a second time showed no signs of disease. Their milk production remained steady, and the virus was undetectable.

Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan say their study suggests that a vaccine could be highly effective in managing outbreaks. However, they note differences between infection and vaccination and say that more research is needed.

Related Stories
RFD NEWS Correspondent Frank McCaffrey was in Mission, Texas, where state and federal officials addressed growers and producers at a round table event hosted at a citrus grower’s facility. He shows us how welcome news was all around.
A transition from traditional, technology-specific subsidies toward a performance-based, technology-neutral framework
Lower freight costs helped sustain export demand amid a challenging pricing environment.
Producers across the country spent the week balancing spring planning with tight margins and uneven moisture outlooks. Input purchasing stayed cautious, while marketing and cash-flow decisions remained front and center for many operations.
Income support helps, but farm finances remain tight heading into 2026.
New Holland VP Ryan Schaefer shares insights into the brand’s legacy and innovations that support U.S. cattle producers.

Agriculture Shows
Hosted by Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady and RFD News Markets Specialist Tony St. James, Commodity Talk delivers expert insight into the day’s ag commodity markets just before the CME opens. Only on RFD-TV and Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147.
A look at the news, weather and commodities headlines that drove agriculture markets in the past week.
Everything profits from prairie. Soil, air, water — and all kinds of life! Learn how you can improve your land with prairie restoration, cover crops and prairie strips, while growing your bottom line.
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.