High Path Avian Flu continues to take a toll on both the poultry and dairy sectors. 48 states have reported cases in birds, while 8 states have confirmed the virus in dairy cows.
The symptoms in cattle are fairly noticeable but animal health experts say there are several things to watch out for.
“So, it’s decreased milk production, abnormal milk, and the cow might dry off early. There might be a fever. The cow is going to have a decreased feed consumption. Her rumen is going to slow down. Well, she’s not eating, so her rumen’s gonna slow down. Then, on the back end, so to speak, she’s going to have either diarrhea or a change in the manure consistency. There have been a few talking about a nasal discharge, but this virus in dairy doesn’t seem to be causing respiratory issues. The virus is going for the mammary tissue, and we’re finding it in the milk,” said Beth Thompson.
Since the outbreak began in birds more than two years ago, APHIS reports more than 90 million birds have been affected. While it is not unheard of for a virus to jump species, it is usually rare.
