High-Path Avian Flu has been confirmed in more than 1,000 herds across 17 states. While it spreads easily in cow udders, researchers have found no signs that it is adapting to humans.
The virus seems to thrive on receptors in cow mammary glands that are similar to those in birds. Most cows recover after a couple of weeks, but the outbreak is still putting a major financial strain on producers.
One estimate from an ag economist suggests a dairy cow 2,500 cows in quarantine could lose half a million dollars a day due to treatment costs, labor, and lost production.
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CoBank says consumer trends and export competition are increasing the focus on milk components.
Meridan Agribusiness Advisors researchers estimate beef-on-dairy cattle now account for roughly 20 percent of calf and beef supply, with room to grow.
More cows are driving higher milk production despite rising replacement and feed costs.
Declining fluid milk consumption is spreading less volume across a growing number of processing plants.
