USDA orders H5N1 testing of some dairy cows to limit spread of bird flu

On Wednesday, the U.S. Department of Agriculture took action to curb the spread of H5N1 among dairy cattle. This federal order mandates negative virus tests for cattle moved interstate. Laboratories and state veterinarians must report animals testing positive for H5N1 or other influenza A viruses to the USDA.

Moreover, if farms transport cattle across state lines and find animals positive for H5N1, they must open their records to investigators. This aids in tracing cattle movement from infected herds. By ordering testing of dairy cows, the USDA aims to identify any instances of bird flu early on, thereby preventing its further spread.

“A negative test is required before they can move. If they end up testing positive, they will have a 30-day waiting period before they could move, and they’d have to be tested again,” Mike Watson, administrator for the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, told a news conference featuring senior officials from the USDA, the Food and Drug Administration, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

Furthermore, the USDA’s directive reflects its dedication to implementing robust strategies for disease surveillance and control. Through targeted testing of dairy cows, the USDA aims to limit the spread of bird flu within the agricultural sector. These measures underscore the USDA’s proactive approach to protecting animal welfare and minimizing the economic impact of avian influenza outbreaks.
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