Farms.com Home   News

Individual working on a U.S. dairy farm reported to have avian influenza

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention in the U.S. has now confirmed a human case of avian influenza with an individual that had contact with dairy cows that were believed to have the virus.

The individual's only symptom seemed to be eye inflammation.

The H5N1 bird flu human health risk for the U.S. is still considered to be low, however they note the risk is higher for anyone exposed to infected birds or animals.

Last week, the USDA confirmed that highly pathogenic avian influenza had been detected in some dairy herds across several states ...  including Texas, Kansas, Michigan, and most recently in New Mexico and Idaho.

The USDA confirms wild migratory birds are believed to be the source of the infection.

Producers with the affected cows have reported a rapid onset illness in the herd, specifically among older, lactating cows.

Dairy farmers and veterinarians report that most affected cows recover in about two to three weeks.

Even though its only been found in dairy cattle it resulted in some market uncertainty in the US beef market earlier this week, while the hog markets seemed to gain some ground.

Click here to see more...

Trending Video

PRRS Eradication Strategies - Dr. DeBuse and Dr. Tousignant

Video: PRRS Eradication Strategies - Dr. DeBuse and Dr. Tousignant


In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show, Dr. Neil DeBuse from Kalmbach Feeds and Dr. Steve Tousignant from Vaxxinova US discuss PRRS management strategies, recombination risks, whole genome sequencing, and the role of autogenous immunization programs in swine systems. They highlight practical approaches to improving immunity, reducing outbreaks, and advancing PRRS control across production systems. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Being PRRS negative sooner is a real key for eradication because every additional positive week increases production losses and viral exposure risks." - Dr. Neil DeBuse

Meet the guest: Dr. Neil DeBuse is a veterinarian at Kalmbach Feeds with more than 30 years of experience in swine health and production. His work focuses on PRRS control, biosecurity, immunity, and improving production stability across commercial swine systems in the United States and internationally.

Dr. Steve Tousignant is Director of the Swine Business Unit and Technical Services Veterinarian at Vaxxinova US, with a DVM and PhD from the University of Minnesota. His experience combines epidemiology, technical services, and practical immunization strategies designed to support consistent herd performance and long-term production stability. Don’t miss the chance to be part of the Swine Inner Circle!