The Texas dairy industry has been dealt another blow as cows in the Texas Panhandle have tested positive for the bird flu, following the devastating wildfires that claimed the lives of thousands of livestock. Researchers believe this is the first time the disease has been found in livestock.

On Monday, the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service confirmed the presence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, commonly known as the bird flu, in cows at two different dairies. The outbreak is also being monitored by the state agriculture department. Similar outbreaks have already been reported in dairies in Kansas and New Mexico.

Despite concerns, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has assured that there is no safety concern regarding the commercial milk supply and no risk to the consumer's health. The milk from affected animals is being disposed of and will not enter the food supply. Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller stated that even if some affected milk were to enter the food chain, the pasteurization process would effectively eliminate the virus.

The dairy industry is of critical importance to Texas, contributing around $50 billion to the state's economy. Texas ranks fourth in the U.S. for milk production, with approximately 292 dairies and an estimated 625,000 cows. In the Panhandle region, which is known for its cattle production, over 1.3 billion gallons of milk are produced annually.

The Texas Animal Health Commission has reported a decrease in milk production, thicker milk resembling colostrum, and reduced appetite among cows affected by the bird flu. Older cows and those in mid-lactation are particularly vulnerable. Infected herds are expected to experience a 40% loss in milk production for a period of 7-10 days before recovering from their symptoms.

Although approximately 10% of each affected herd is believed to be infected, the USDA did not specify if any cows have died as a result of the disease. Additionally, the impact on milk supply is expected to be limited, with no anticipated effect on milk prices or other dairy products.

Efforts are underway to monitor the affected herds and conduct further testing. The disease, which usually spreads between birds, is uncommon in dairy herds. To prevent further spread, experts are recommending enhanced biosecurity measures and limiting access to dairies to only essential personnel.

The virus is suspected to have been introduced to the herds by deceased wild birds found on the farms. The animal health commission, along with federal agriculture department and Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, is diligently evaluating the situation. Dairy producers have been advised to watch for signs such as abnormal feces, low appetite, and fever among their cattle. Any related illnesses should be promptly reported to the USDA, state animal health commission, or the Texas A&M lab.

Preliminary testing by the National Veterinary Services Laboratories has indicated low risk to the public, as no changes in the virus have been observed that would make it more transmissible to humans.

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