DATCP Update On HPAI

The Department of Agriculture, Trade, & Consumer Protection (DATCP) has issued an update on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) caused by the influenza virus H5N1. In the past 30 days, the USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed the presence of HPAI (H5N1) in 263 dairy herds in two states. No detections of HPAI (H5N1) in Wisconsin cattle, poultry, or wildlife have been detected.

Producers should continue to enhance biosecurity and monitor disease in their herds; and report herds with unexplained symptoms to DATCP at 608-224-4872 during business hours, or 1-800-943-0003 after hours and weekends.

A Federal order requires lactating dairy cattle to test negative for Influenza A virus at a National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN) lab before interstate movement; and a subset of 30 cows must be tested for groups moving together.

Wisconsin requirements call for lactating dairy cattle to test negative for Influenza A virus before moving to fairs or exhibitions.

Human cases of H5N1 have been reported following exposure to dairy cattle. Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) advises those working with animals to take precautions and wear Personal Protective Equipment per Centers for Disease Control guidance. According to the CDC, the public health risk from H5N1 detections remains low.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and USDA continue to emphasize that the commercial milk supply is safe because of the pasteurization process. The USDA is also confident that the meat supply is safe.