The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has announced the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a New Mexico dairy herd and five additional dairy herds in Texas. This alarming development comes amidst ongoing investigations into the spread of the virus and its potential impact on farm workers and animals.

The announcement follows the confirmation of the first human case of HPAI in Texas, where a person had contact with dairy cattle. This highlights the risk faced by farm workers who come into direct contact with potentially infected animals. In a surprising twist, cats showing signs of illness on the dairy farms have also tested positive for the virus.

With the latest outbreaks, HPAI has now been confirmed on seven Texas farms, alongside two in Kansas, and one each in New Mexico and Michigan. The USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratory is actively working to confirm a presumptive positive case on a dairy herd in Idaho.

The Texas Department of State Health Services (TDSHS) has issued a health alert, urging medical providers to remain vigilant for individuals exhibiting symptoms of HPAI, especially those who have had contact with potentially infected animals. It has been reported that wild birds, cats, and dairy cows have been tested due to their showing signs of illness, with positive results for the avian influenza A(H5N1) being found.

The Texas Animal Health Commission has confirmed HPAI in three cats, adding to the growing concern about virus transmission within farm settings. Wild birds on affected farms have already tested positive for H5N1, raising suspicions that the virus may be spreading from cow to cow. Ongoing investigations aim to determine the extent of virus circulation in other animals and wildlife.

Virologists are analyzing genetic sequences from US ruminants and wild birds, hoping to gain insights into the origin and transmission patterns of the virus. Early findings suggest a connection between dairy cow and wild bird samples collected around the same time. However, genetic sequencing has also revealed similarities between goat samples from Minnesota and a pheasant sequence from Colorado.

Federal health officials maintain that the overall risk to the public remains low, citing safety measures in place within the milk supply chain, such as pasteurization. Nevertheless, they caution against the consumption of raw milk, which can harbor pathogens. Experts recommend that dairy farm operators in affected areas prioritize the safety of individuals at high risk, particularly those working with raw milk and calves, as well as individuals with compromised immune systems.

Dr. Joe Armstrong, a cattle production expert at the University of Minnesota, advises dairy operators to ensure that their workers, including those who may not speak English as their first language, are informed about the symptoms of the illness and where to seek medical help if needed. Monitoring and advocating for the well-being of farm employees, especially those in high-risk categories, is crucial during these challenging times.

As investigations continue and more cases emerge, health authorities and veterinarians stress the importance of thorough surveillance and precautionary measures to control the spread of HPAI in dairy herds and safeguard the health and safety of both animals and humans.