By Scout Nelson
In a concerning development for public and animal health, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed a human case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in Texas.
This case, linked to exposure to dairy cattle presumed to be infected, has prompted heightened awareness of the bird flu's potential impact. The individual, experiencing only eye redness, is on the mend, and the CDC still considers the human health risk low.
This confirmation follows reports from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) of HPAI spreading not only in poultry but also among cattle and small ruminants.
A significant event was noted in South Dakota, where over 31,000 birds at a commercial facility were affected, highlighting the virus's reach across states.
Adding to the concern, the Minnesota Board of Animal Health reported the first case of HPAI in a domestic ruminant in the U.S. - a juvenile goat. Further, cases of dairy cattle have been confirmed in Texas, Kansas, and Michigan.
With over 200 cases detected in wild mammals, the agricultural community is on high alert. Dan Quadros, a small ruminant specialist, emphasized the need for vigilance and biosecurity measures to prevent the spread.
Recommendations include limiting livestock access to areas frequented by wild waterfowl, observing for signs of illness, and segregating poultry from other livestock.
The report also stressed the importance of consuming only pasteurized milk and properly cooking meat to prevent infection. With influenza vaccines for horses ineffective against HPAI and no protection offered by Parainfluenza-3 vaccines for cattle, preventive actions are crucial.
Producers are urged to report unexplained animal deaths to authorities and consult veterinarians. This situation underscores the need for comprehensive biosecurity to protect livestock and public health amid the ongoing HPAI outbreak.
Photo Credit -gettyimages-branex
Categories: South Dakota, Livestock, Poultry