The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a New Mexico dairy herd, with five more Texas dairy herds also testing positive for the virus. This announcement comes amidst rapidly evolving developments, including the first human case of H5N1 infection in Texas, highlighting the risks faced by farm workers who come in contact with dairy cattle.

Furthermore, cats showing signs of illness in the dairy farm settings have also tested positive for the virus. The virus has now been confirmed on a total of seven Texas farms, along with two in Kansas, and one each in New Mexico and Michigan. The USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratory is currently working to confirm a presumptive positive from a dairy herd in Idaho.

Following the confirmation of the first human H5N1 infection linked to exposure to dairy cows, the Texas Department of State Health Services (TDSHS) issued a health alert urging healthcare providers to remain vigilant for symptoms related to H5N1, particularly in individuals who have had contact with potentially infected animals.

The TDSHS also reported that samples collected from various animals, including wild birds, cats, and dairy cows, showed the presence of avian influenza A(H5N1). The Texas Animal Health Commission confirmed the presence of HPAI in three cats based on lab tests. This suggests that the virus may be spreading among cows, as well as other animals on the affected farms.

Virologists are examining genetic sequences from US ruminants and wild birds, which are being uploaded to public databases. Through genetic sequencing, scientists have found that the dairy cow sequences align with those from wild bird samples collected in Texas. Additionally, goat samples from Minnesota were found to be most similar to a pheasant sequence from Colorado. Notably, influenza A has never before been reported in ruminants, making these cases unusual.

Federal health officials have emphasized that the threat to the general public remains low, thanks to safety measures such as pasteurization ensuring the safety of the nation's milk supply. However, they caution against consuming raw milk, as it can harbor pathogens.

In light of the outbreak, experts from the University of Minnesota have advised dairy farm operators in affected areas to prioritize the safety of those at the highest risk, especially if personal protective equipment is limited. These include workers handling raw milk, employees working with calves, and individuals with immunocompromised conditions like pregnancy.

Additionally, dairy farm operators are urged to ensure that workers, including non-English speakers, are aware of the symptoms of the illness and know when to seek medical help. It is vital to advocate for and regularly check in with employees to ensure their wellbeing.

As investigations continue to understand the extent of the virus's spread among animals and wildlife, authorities are working to mitigate its impact on farms. The situation remains dynamic, with further updates to be provided.

Note: This article has been updated to include information on cat samples from the Texas Animal Health Commission.