USDA Mandates Nationwide Testing of Milk Supply for Bird Flu Virus Monitoring

The United States government has mandated testing of the nation's milk supply for bird flu to monitor its spread in dairy cows. Starting 16 December, raw or unpasteurised milk from dairy farms and processors nationwide must undergo testing upon request, according to the Agriculture Department. Initially, this testing will commence in six states: California, Colorado, Michigan, Mississippi, Oregon, and Pennsylvania.

Bird flu, specifically Type A H5N1, was first detected in US dairy cows in March. Since then, over 700 herds across 15 states have been confirmed as infected. The Agriculture Department aims to contain and eventually eradicate the virus through this initiative. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack stated that this measure will enhance farm safety and help control the virus's spread nationwide.

Testing and Safety Measures

The risk of bird flu to humans remains low, as health officials assure that pasteurisation effectively kills the virus in milk, making it safe for consumption. However, raw milk from infected cows has shown high levels of live virus. Federal officials continue to advise against consuming raw milk due to potential health risks from various germs.

Veterinarians, farmers, scientists, and academics have advocated for nationwide milk testing for several months. Keith Poulsen, director of the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, who spearheaded these efforts, remarked that the decision represents progress in managing the situation. "It's another step in the right direction," Poulsen said.

Industry Response and Concerns

Dairy farmers and processors have been hesitant to test animals or milk for fear of economic consequences. Despite these concerns, Jamie Jonker, chief science officer of the National Milk Producers Federation, expressed industry support for USDA's efforts to eliminate the virus.

The federal order requires dairy farmers and handlers of raw milk intended for pasteurisation to provide samples for bird flu testing upon request. Positive test results must be reported to the USDA. Additionally, herd owners are required to provide basic information to trace the disease in cattle.

Previous Measures and Ongoing Challenges

This move follows an earlier federal order from 24 April mandating testing of certain dairy cattle before interstate movement and requiring reporting of positive tests. Despite these measures, the virus continues to spread. Poulsen noted that previous efforts have not halted its progression.

At least 58 people in the US have contracted bird flu, primarily farm workers who experienced mild illness after close contact with infected cows or poultry. Bird flu has also been spreading among wild birds and other animals.

In California, officials quarantined a farm and stopped milk distribution after detecting bird flu in raw milk sold in stores. Raw Farm of Fresno voluntarily recalled raw milk and cream produced after 9 November.

The new testing requirement aims to bolster confidence among farms and farmworkers regarding animal safety while striving for swift control over the virus's spread across the nation.