By Andi Anderson
The Indiana State Board of Animal Health (BOAH) shares information provided by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) regarding measures to prevent the spread of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza. While no cases have been identified in Indiana, proactive steps are being taken to protect livestock health.
- Mandatory Testing for Interstate Movement of Dairy Cattle: Effective April 29, 2024, dairy cattle moving interstate must undergo testing for Influenza A virus at approved laboratories. Positive test results require epidemiological information disclosure.
- Mandatory Reporting: Laboratories and state veterinarians are mandated to report positive Influenza A diagnostic results to USDA APHIS.
- Risk Assessment: USDA's APHIS and CDC continue to monitor the situation. No significant changes have been observed in the virus's transmissibility to humans.
- Public Health Measures: Producers are urged to practice good biosecurity measures. CDC affirms the low risk to the public, emphasizing the importance of biosecurity in limiting disease spread.
- Research and Information Sharing: APHIS makes genetic sequences available for research purposes and encourages information sharing among dairy cattle producers to enhance understanding and control of the disease.
- Milk Safety Assurance: FDA and USDA affirm the safety of the commercial milk supply due to pasteurization and strict protocols for sick cows.
USDA's proactive measures, in collaboration with federal partners, aim to prevent the spread of avian influenza in livestock. Indiana's BOAH urges vigilance and adherence to biosecurity practices among cattle producers to safeguard animal health. To learn more about USDA’s response to HPAI in dairy cattle, visit https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/livestock.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-richlegg
Categories: Indiana, Livestock, Poultry