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
China-led demand continues to anchor soybean and sorghum exports despite weekly swings.
Shrinking slaughter capacity may delay heifer retention, complicating herd rebuilding plans.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney says farmers there are already sounding the alarm about what this could mean for the future of ag research.
Global pork production is expected to rise in the first half of 2026, despite trade volatility stemming from shifting import policies and swine disease pressures.
Even small declines in the calf crop translate into sustained supply pressure, supporting cattle prices over multiple years.

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.