Bird Flu Outbreak Expands to Dairy Cattle in Nebraska

On September 15, 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed the first case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a dairy cattle herd in Nebraska. This case marks a continuation of an 18-month outbreak affecting livestock across the United States. The Nebraska Department of Agriculture, in collaboration with the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, has quarantined the affected herd located in central Nebraska.

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Since the initial detection of the H5N1 strain in dairy cows in March 2024, over 1,000 herds across 17 states, including Texas, Arizona, Idaho, Nevada, Michigan, and California, have reported cases. The USDA noted that while the outbreak is decelerating, vigilance remains crucial. According to the National Veterinary Services Laboratories, the strain identified in Nebraska resembles one previously found in California. Fortunately, with appropriate care, dairy cattle typically recover with minimal mortality associated with the infection.

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Scott Hensley, a microbiology professor at the University of Pennsylvania, indicated that the detection of HPAI in Nebraska was anticipated due to the virus's persistent circulation among cattle. He emphasized the importance of determining whether this case represents a new bird-to-cow infection or if the virus was introduced by an already infected animal.

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The outbreak is not limited to cattle; Minnesota has also reported a new case of bird flu in a commercial turkey flock in Redwood County, marking the first confirmed case in Minnesota poultry since April 2024. The state Board of Animal Health confirmed that a flock of approximately 20,000 turkey toms experienced an unusual number of deaths, leading to lab tests that confirmed the presence of the H5 strain of bird flu. Dr. Shauna Voss, assistant director of the Board of Animal Health, noted that the timing coincides with the fall migration of wild waterfowl, which can spread the virus.

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In light of these developments, Minnesota turkey farmers are increasingly advocating for an avian influenza vaccine. Jake Vlaminck, president of the Minnesota Turkey Growers Association, reported a shift in attitudes toward vaccination among farmers. He highlighted the economic significance of the turkey industry in Minnesota, which not only impacts farmers but also affects processing, feed production, and related services.

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The USDA has reassured the public that poultry products, including turkey and milk, remain safe for consumption despite the ongoing outbreaks. The agency continues to monitor the situation closely and encourages robust biosecurity measures among livestock producers to mitigate the spread of the virus.

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While the USDA has confirmed the presence of HPAI in both dairy cattle and turkeys, there is no consensus on the potential for further spread or the effectiveness of current biosecurity measures. The situation remains fluid, and ongoing surveillance will be critical in managing the outbreak.

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“‘Turkey is a big economic engine for Minnesota. So, it’s not just the farmer on the farm it’s also the people who process it. It’s the people who make the feed, grow the crops, all the people in-between who fix the trucks and make sure everything stays running,’ said Vlaminck,” — Jake Vlaminck, President, Minnesota Turkey Growers Association

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“‘Vigilance and robust biosecurity remain the best methods for flock owners to protect poultry from avian influenza,’ Voss said.” — Dr. Shauna Voss, Assistant Director, Minnesota Board of Animal Health

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“‘It will be important to determine if the Nebraska herd represents a new bird-to-cow infection, or if the virus was brought into the state by an already infected cow,’ he said.” — Scott Hensley, Professor of Microbiology, University of Pennsylvania

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