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

2026 AFSC Women in Ag Winner | Laura Brown, The Operator

Video: 2026 AFSC Women in Ag Winner | Laura Brown, The Operator

Laura Brown has devoted more than five decades to Alberta’s beef industry and has been a cornerstone of LLB Angus since 1978. Her strength, knowledge and commitment have made a lasting impact on her community and the cattle sector.

The Operator is a primary agriculture producer or agribusiness owner who is the backbone of their operation or business. They support and empower their peers, providing support systems to other farmers and agribusiness colleagues in the industry.