Bird Flu alert - Human case linked to Texas dairy cows

Apr 02, 2024

By Farms.com

A person in Texas contracts bird flu after contact with infected dairy cows. The Texas Department of State Health Services warns health providers to watch for symptoms amid the spread of avian influenza in cattle.

Avian influenza, typically spread by wild birds, poses minimal risk of human-to-human transmission. However, close contact with infected animals increases the likelihood of infection.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirms bird flu in dairy herds across multiple states, including Texas, Kansas, and Michigan. Presumptive positive cases emerge in Idaho, New Mexico, and Texas.

Regulatory measures and pasteurization ensure the safety of the commercial milk supply. Still, the outbreak highlights the need for vigilance and cooperation among health and agriculture authorities.

Livestock producers face rapid changes as avian influenza affects cattle. Prompt detection and response are essential to mitigating the spread and impact of the virus on both human and animal health.

Video: Inside the Swine Disease Reporting System - Dr. Guilherme Cezar

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Guilherme Cezar from Iowa State University explains how the Swine Disease Reporting System (SDRS) tracks emerging disease trends in the U.S. swine industry. He outlines patterns in pathogen activity, including positive developments with Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae and concerning surges in PRRS variants. Gain insights into disease surveillance, biosecurity, and cross-border collaboration potential. Listen now on all major platforms!

"The Swine Disease Reporting System aggregates diagnostic lab data to monitor and interpret trends in nine major swine pathogens."

Meet the guest: Dr. Guilherme Cezar / guilhermec-veterinario-037064168 is a veterinarian and Ph.D. candidate in Veterinary Preventive Medicine at Iowa State University, where he also serves as the Coordinator of the Swine Disease Reporting System (SDRS). With a strong background in swine health, biotechnology, and field epidemiology, he focuses on infectious disease trends and data-driven solutions.