Federal officials first revealed the discovery of High Path Avian Flu in cattle on March 25th. However, new research shows the virus might have been lurking long before it was found.
A research project, funded by the USDA and CDC, shows a wild bird likely introduced the virus to cattle. From there, they believe the virus circulated locally for around four months before the March discovery.
Using genetics, scientists at the University of Arizona found sequences showing a single transmission event late last year. Tests have revealed no traces of the virus in ground beef, and health leaders reiterate the U.S. food supply is safe despite these cases.
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Researchers in Denmark and St. Jude Hospital submitted a new study for peer review providing new insight into how High Path Avian Flu (HPAI) H5N1 in dairy cattle differs from avian cases.
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the USDA will help dairy producers dealing with High-Path Avian Flu (HPAI) H5N1 outbreaks in their herds.
Starting Monday, April 29, the USDA will require free avian flu (HPAI H5N1) testing on all dairy cattle before interstate travel. Positive cases must be directly reported to the USDA for tracing.
