Announcement

**sharon sanders** · April 29, 2024, 11:01 AM

from above report - A wild skunk

OB_134242 - SACRAMENTO COUNTY

OUTBREAK REFERENCE

- START DATE

2024/01/17

END DATE

- DETAILED CHARACTERISATION

- FIRST ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION

California

SECOND ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION

Sacramento

THIRD ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION

- EPIDEMIOLOGICAL UNIT

Other

LOCATION

Sacramento County

Latitude, Longitude

38.583 , -121.497

(Approximate location)

OUTBREAKS IN CLUSTER

- MEASURING UNIT

Animal

AFFECTED POPULATION DESCRIPTION

Wild skunk (unidentified species). SpeciesSusceptibleCasesDeathsKilled and Disposed ofSlaughtered/ Killed for commercial useVaccinated Mephitidae (unidentified) (WILD)
WildNEW-1----TOTAL-1----

METHOD OF DIAGNOSTIC

Diagnostic test

CONTROL MEASURES DIFFERENT FROM EVENT LEVEL

MEASURES NOT IMPLEMENTED

**Pathfinder** · July 16, 2024, 04:59 PM

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 Virus in Livestock

Information about HPAI in dairy cattle is an evolving, fluid situation with ongoing research and policy development. Please check back frequently as the information below will be updated as it becomes available. Last updated: 7/9/2024

Bovine Health Alert

There are no Bovine Health Alerts at this time.

Current HPAI H5N1 in Livestock Guidance For California Producers

CDFA Dairy Cattle Import Order: Bovine Associated Influenza A (H5N1) Syndrome Entry Requirements for Importing Dairy Breed Cattle from Affected states (4/4/2024)
What to Expect if You Suspect HPAI in Your Herd (5/16/2024)
Healthy Dairy Cattle HPAI Testing Protocols for Monitored Herd, Pre-Movement, and Non-Monitored Herd Surveillance (7/9/2024)
CDFA HPAI in Livestock Monitored Herd Pilot Program Requirements (6/14/2024)
CDFA HPAI in Livestock Monitored Herd Agreement (5/30/2024)
CDFA Dairy Cow Exhibit Guidance Document for Fairs (6/13/2024)

Clinical Signs

Infected cattle may be asymptomatic (subclinical) or symptomatic (clinical) and virus is predominantly found in milk and mammary tissue regardless of symptoms.

Clinical signs may include:

Decrease in feed consumption with a simultaneous decrease in rumination and rumen motility
Respiratory signs including clear nasal discharge
Acute drop in milk production. Severely affected cattle may have thicker, concentrated, colostrum-like milk or produce no milk at all.
Abnormal tacky or loose feces
Lethargy
Dehydration
Fever

Sampling Protocol for HPAI in Livestock

Protocol for cows with clinical signs of HPAI
1. For dairies with suspect clinical signs contact your district office for regulatory personnel to conduct a Foreign Animal Disease investigation (FADi).
Protocol for lactating dairy cattle moving interstate (not direct to slaughter movements)
1. All lactating dairy cattle moving interstate require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) and matrix-A negative HPAI test from a National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NALHN) laboratory within seven (7) days of movement.
2. Samples must be collected by an accredited veterinarian, a sample collector approved by a state animal health official, or a designated individual at a farm that was trained to collect milk and nasal swab samples.
3. The sample must be sent to an approved NAHLN laboratory (UC Davis California Animal Health and Food Safety (CAHFS) Laboratory is currently only approved laboratory in California)
4. For groups/lots of 30 or fewer animals moving interstate, all animals being moved must be tested. If more than 30 animals are moving interstate, only 30 animals total must be tested.
Protocol for non-lactating dairy cattle moving interstate and any dairy cattle moving interstate direct to slaughter:
1. Currently no testing required, must have CVI within seven (7) days of movement.

California Movement Restrictions and Interstate Movement Requirements for Dairy Cattle

All dairy breed cattle originating from Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) affected state(s): Must be accompanied by a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) and signed by an accredited veterinarian within seven (7) days of transport that includes the following statement: "All animals identified on this Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) have been inspected within seven (7) days and do not originate from a premises with a confirmed detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) or that is currently under investigation as a suspect premises."

All lactating dairy cattle moving interstate require a CVI and matrix-A negative HPAI test from a NALHN laboratory within seven (7) days of movement, in addition to any state-specific entry requirements of destination state.
Dairy cattle moving interstate direct to slaughter are exempt from the test requirement but do require a CVI or a state-approved owner shipper statement and Premises ID (NPIN), in addition to any state-specific entry requirements of destination state.
Lactating dairy cattle from herds which have tested positive for Influenza A are not eligible for interstate movement for thirty (30) days from the most recent collection of any sample that tests positive from any individual animal in the herd. Re-testing may occur after this 30-day period.
Lactating dairy cattle with clinical signs consistent with HPAI in dairy cattle are ineligible for interstate movement (including to slaughter) as per 9 C.F.R. 71.3(b).

Recommended Biosecurity Measures for Livestock Operations

CDFA strongly encourages dairy farms and processors to:

Review biosecurity protocols, including industry biosecurity resources such as those that may be found on the CDFA website for the Secure Food Supply Program, as well as the resources that can be found on the FARM/NMPF Everyday Biosecurity manual (Biosecurity - National Dairy FARM Program) and the Secure Milk Supply website (Secure Milk Supply Plan).
Continue to be vigilant to observe for clinical signs consistent with this outbreak such as acute loss of animal appetite and rumination; significant/acute drop in milk; changes in manure consistency.
Contact your herd veterinarian if you observe animal conditions outside of the ordinary. This has not currently been reported in California, but it is a reminder to enforce biosecurity on your dairy operation or when visiting other dairy operations.

Disease Spread

The primary introduction of disease into dairy herds has been predominantly via exposure to wild birds. The exact mechanism of spread is currently unknown, although there is potential for viral spread through milk. USDA has identified spread between cows within the same herd, spread from cows to poultry, spread between dairies associated with cattle movements, and cows without clinical signs that have tested positive. On April 16, APHIS microbiologists identified a shift in an H5N1 sample from a cow in Kansas that could indicate that the virus has an adaptation to mammals.

Diagnosis & Prevention

There is no specific treatment or cure for animals infected with HPAI H5N1 and there are currently no vaccines available to prevent this disease. Veterinarians and livestock owners who suspect an animal may have Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 should immediately contact a State or Federal animal health authority.

Testing for HPAI H5N1 in milk samples (lactating cattle) or nasal swab samples (non-lactating cattle) can confirm HPAI H5N1 viral infections.

Even with the best defense measures, HPAI H5N1 can still affect your herd. The following are ways to help protect livestock:

No movement of clinical dairy cattle for 30 days past last matrix-A positive HPAI test
Ensure cattle trailers are only used to haul your cattle or thoroughly clean and disinfect trailers between use.
Adhere to an isolation period of a minimum of 30 days for new arrivals with active observational surveillance for clinical signs.
Feed only heat treated/pasteurized milk to calves and other livestock and heat treat/pasteurize any milk being discarded.
Milk affected animals last with thorough cleaning and disinfection of milking equipment (utilizing dedicated milking units if possible)
Separate animals with clinical signs from healthy animals
Use dedicated coveralls and boots when handling clinical animals (use dedicated farm personnel to only handle clinical animals where possible).
Use good personal hygiene measures including freshly laundered clothes and showering before visiting dairy farms or processing facilities.
Limit vehicle/visitor traffic to strictly essential deliveries/visits (feed, milk, waste removal).
Clean and disinfect vehicles crossing the line of separation and entering/leaving the farm or obtain a commercial car wash before and after visiting a livestock operation.
Engage state and federal wildlife agencies for wild bird mitigation.

CDFA appreciates your efforts to protect livestock health in California on a daily basis. Remember, people, equipment, and vehicles can easily spread dangerous diseases from one location to another.

More information on HPAI H5N1 in Livestock

USDA: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Detections in Livestock
USDA Federal HPAI Livestock Testing Order: Federal Order Requiring Testing for and Reporting of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Livestock
APHIS Requirements and Recommendations for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 Virus in Livestock

Milk Safety

Questions and Answers Regarding Milk Safety During Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Outbreaks | FDA

Public Health and Dairy Worker Safety

APHIS Recommendations for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 Virus in Livestock for Workers (4/12/2024)

CDFA - AHFSS - AHB - H5N1 Bird Flu Virus in Livestock

https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/AHFSS/Animal_Health/HPAI.html

**Pathfinder** · July 16, 2024, 05:36 PM

WastewaterSCAN Dashboard

https://data.wastewaterscan.org/tracker/?charts=CjoQASABSABSBjI1NDgxOVIGOGE5YjRiUgY1NzlkYTNSBmM4ZDM1N1oHSW5mQV9INXgiigEGYTk4Mzll&selectedChartId=a9839e

WastewaterSCAN Data Dashboard tracks infectious diseases across the US via wastewater surveillance.

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H5N1 Bird Flu

Last content update: 7/12/24

The County of Santa Clara Public Health Department is monitoring a multi-state outbreak of H5N1 bird flu in dairy cows in the United States. This is the first time that H5N1 bird flu has been found in cows.

To date, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has indicated that there are no reported cases of H5N1 bird flu in cows or humans in California. The Public Health Department is also frequently receiving wastewater testing results for H5N1 bird flu.

For more information including the number of reported human H5N1 cases in the United States, visit the CDC’s H5N1 Bird Flu: Current Situation Summary webpage.

There have been sporadic detections of H5 influenza in wastewater samples taken from the Palo Alto sewershed since June 19. H5 influenza has not been detected in any wastewater samples taken from the other three sewersheds in Santa Clara County.

The current risk to the general public from H5N1 bird flu remains low.

For more information, refer to the WastewaterSCAN Dashboard.

...

Attention Required! | Cloudflare

https://publichealth.sccgov.org/disease-information/h5n1-bird-flu

**Commonground** · August 29, 2024, 05:24 PM

CDFA Statement on possible introduction of highly pathogenic avian influenza at California dairy farms

8/29/24

The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) is investigating the possible introduction of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) at three dairy farms in the Central Valley. Should HPAI be confirmed, it is important to note that pasteurization is fully effective at inactivating the virus and there is no milk or dairy product safety concern for consumers.

With the detection of HPAI in dairies elsewhere in the US in recent months, CDFA has been engaged with private veterinarians, farmers and ranchers, and local, state and federal partners to develop response plans and actively monitor for the disease in livestock and poultry throughout California. CDFA has taken steps to reduce the risk of entry of infected dairy cattle into the state, has maintained rapid response capability used during past detections of HPAI in poultry, and is prepared to respond to detections in cattle. If these cases are confirmed, CDFA will continue working closely with the California Department of Public Health, and local agricultural and public health officials, to understand the extent of the introduction and support animal health and public health activities with the goal of limiting exposure to virus while the impacted herds develop immunity.

Samples have been submitted from these three sites to our California Animal Health and Food Safety (CAHFS) laboratory. Any positive tests at our California lab would be considered “presumptive” and submitted to the USDA for final confirmation (typically within a few days). As with most influenza infections in cattle, infected dairy cows would be expected to recover within a few weeks.

CDFA - AHFSS - AHB - H5N1 Bird Flu Virus in Livestock

https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/AHFSS/Animal_Health/HPAI.html?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email

**Pathfinder** · August 30, 2024, 08:37 AM

Central Valley (California)
/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Valley_(California)
-----------------------------------

H5N1 bird flu infections suspected in California dairy herds

By Susanne Rust
Staff Writer
Aug. 29, 2024 Updated 6:30 PM PT

The California Department of Food and Agriculture said Thursday that H5N1 bird flu is suspected to have infected three dairy herds in the state.
...
Details about whether the milk has gone into retail circulation were unavailable.
...
California ranks as the largest producer of dairy in the nation. It has about 1,300 dairy farms and 1.69 million dairy cows. The state produces nearly 20% of all U.S. milk.

The Central Valley is a corridor for wild bird migration and a hot spot for commercial poultry operations. However, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s bird flu tracker for commercial poultry, there have been no commercial outbreaks in the last 30 days and just two in backyard flocks in California.

The San Joaquin Valley — the southern extent of the Central Valley — is also home to more than 90% of California dairy cows at farms with more than 500 head.

H5N1 bird flu infections suspected in California dairy herds

https://www.latimes.com/environment/story/2024-08-29/h5n1-bird-flu-infections-suspected-in-california-cows

The California Department of Food and Agriculture said Thursday that H5N1 bird flu is suspected to have infected three dairy herds in the state.

**sharon sanders** · August 30, 2024, 03:34 PM

Interesting considering the pending test results on 3 possible dairy farms.....

Avian Influenza Alert

On June 28, 2024, the State of California completely fulfilled the necessary actions and surveillance requirements to again self-declare free from HPAI in Poultry.

All HPAI response activities have been completed. The Quarantine was released on the last infected eligible poultry premises (Merced 03) on: 6/13/2024

The H5N1 HPAI incident in CA is now final, closed, and resolved.

CDFA - Animal Health - Avian Influenza

https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/ahfss/Animal_Health/Avian_Influenza.html

**sharon sanders** · August 31, 2024, 05:14 AM

AVIAN INFLUENZA CONFIRMED IN THREE CALIFORNIA DAIRY HERDS

Three Central Valley farms quarantined; no human cases detected; no threat to the milk or food supply

SACRAMENTO, August 30, 2024 — Cows at three California dairies located in the Central Valley have tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).

When herds began showing clinical signs consistent with HPAI on August 25, 2024, the dairy owners worked with their veterinarians and the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) to submit samples to the California Animal Health and Food Safety (CAHFS) laboratory network for preliminary determination. The samples were then submitted to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL), where the test results were confirmed today.

No human cases of HPAI have been confirmed in California related to this incident. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is working in collaboration with CDFA and will work with local health departments to monitor any individuals who may be exposed to infected animals to ensure prompt clinical and public health interventions, and CDPH would provide official confirmation of any human cases associated with this incident.

"We have been preparing for this possibility since earlier this year when HPAI detections were confirmed at dairy farms in other states,” said CDFA Secretary Karen Ross. “Our extensive experience with HPAI in poultry has given us ample preparation and expertise to address this incident, with workers’ health and public health as our top priorities. This is a tough time for our dairy farmers given the economic challenges they’re facing in a dynamic market, so I want to assure them that we are approaching this incident with the utmost urgency."

According to CDPH and the Centers for Disease Control, this influenza virus is not considered a significant public health threat and the risk to humans is considered low. The primary concern is for dairy workers who come into close contact with infected dairy cows. As we have learned from recent cases in other states, these workers may be at risk of contracting avian influenza. Public health officials have experience working with agricultural partners and supporting farm workers working with infected poultry to prevent and monitor for infection. CDPH recommends that PPE (masks, gloves, caps, face shields, and safety goggles) be worn by farm workers and emergency responders when working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with avian influenza.

Earlier this summer, CDPH supported a one-time distribution of protective equipment for dairy farm workers and others handling raw dairy products, as well as for slaughterhouse and commercial poultry farmworkers. CDPH will continue to support dairies with confirmed positive cases with PPE. Furthermore, affected farms can take advantage of a USDA grant that provides financial support for producers that supply PPE to employees. The CDC has confirmed four human cases of HPAI in dairy workers in other states since April 2024: one each in Texas and Colorado, and two in Michigan. CDFA is working with public health officials and dairy owners to inform and monitor workers at affected dairies in California, and to assist the dairies with education and resources to protect their workers, including providing PPE.

For CDC guidance for employees and employers, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/avianflu...rself-h5n1.pdf

California's supply of milk and dairy foods is safe and has not been impacted by these events. As a precaution, and according to longstanding state and federal requirements, milk from sick cows is not permitted in the public milk supply. Also, pasteurization of milk is fully effective at inactivating the virus, so there is no cause for concern for consumers from milk or dairy products. Pasteurized milk and dairy items, as well as properly handled meat and eggs, continue to be safe to consume.

The affected dairies have been placed under quarantine on the authority of CDFA's State Veterinarian, and enhanced biosecurity measures are in place. Sick cows are isolated and are being treated at the dairies; and healthy cows have been cleared to continue shipping milk for pasteurization.

Animal movement is being tracked and evaluated, as are other potential introduction pathways. Additional testing will be prioritized according to epidemiologic risk. Background on HPAI in California

The HPAI virus has been detected in wild birds in the U.S. since 2022, with occasional transmission into domestic poultry or wild mammals in almost all states, including California. In March, 2024, the first US detection in cattle was confirmed in Texas, most likely due to a single spillover event from wild birds. Since that time, the USDA has linked new detections in cattle to the interstate and regional movement of infected or contaminated livestock, people and equipment.

CDFA has been engaged for years with an extensive network of private veterinarians, farmers and ranchers, backyard bird enthusiasts, and local, state and federal partners to actively monitor for this disease in livestock and poultry throughout California. The department has taken steps to reduce the risk of entry of infected dairy cattle into the state, has extensive experience responding quickly and effectively to past detections of HPAI in poultry, and is fully prepared to respond to detections in cattle.

Most infected livestock and dairy cattle fully recover from an HPAI infection within a few weeks.

No California domestic poultry flocks are affected by the current incident. Avian influenza viruses continue to circulate normally among migratory and wild birds. Monitoring of both wild and domestic bird populations is performed on a continuous basis by multiple public agencies, as well as farmers and ranchers and private bird owners.

For the most up-to-date information regarding highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in livestock in California, please visit CDFA - AHFSS - AHB - Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 Virus in Livestock. Questions and Answers:

AVIAN INFLUENZA CONFIRMED IN THREE CALIFORNIA DAIRY HERDS

Situation Summary:

Cows at three California dairies located in the Central Valley began showing clinical signs consistent with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) beginning August 23-25, 2024. Samples from these three sites were submitted to the California Animal Health and Food Safety (CAHFS) laboratory and found "presumptively positive" then submitted to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL) for official confirmation. On August 30, 2024, NVSL confirmed HPAI in all three dairies. CDFA’s preliminary investigation has confirmed that cows have been moved among these dairies recently. Is the milk supply safe?

Yes. There is no milk or dairy product safety concern for consumers. Pasteurization of milk kills the virus, making pasteurized milk and dairy items safe to consume. Further, dairies must remove sick cows from the group that produces milk for the food supply. It is standard practice to move these animals to the part of the dairy set up for recovery. Is public health at risk? Are dairy workers at risk?

No human cases of HPAI have been confirmed in California related to this incident. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is working in collaboration with CDFA and will work with local health departments to monitor any individuals who may be exposed to infected animals to ensure prompt clinical and public health interventions, and would provide official confirmation of any human cases associated with this incident.

According to CDPH and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), this influenza virus is not currently considered a significant public health threat and the risk to the general public is considered low. The primary concern is for dairy workers who come into close contact with infected dairy cows. As we have learned from recent cases in other states, these workers may be at risk of contracting avian influenza. Public health officials have experience working with agricultural partners and supporting farm workers working with infected poultry to prevent and monitor for infection over the last two years. CDPH recommends that PPE (masks, gloves, caps, face shields, and safety goggles) be worn by farm workers and emergency responders when working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with bird flu. Earlier this summer, CDPH supported a one-time distribution of protective equipment for dairy farm workers and others handling raw dairy products, as well as slaughterhouse and commercial poultry farm workers. CDPH continues to support affected farms with PPE, while supplies last, to dairies with confirmed positive cases. Furthermore, affected farms can take advantage of a USDA grant that provides financial support for producers that supply PPE to employees.

The CDC has confirmed four human cases of HPAI in dairy workers in other states since April 2024: one each in Texas and Colorado, and two in Michigan; all have had mild symptoms. CDFA is working with public health officials and dairy owners to inform and regularly assess workers for symptoms at the affected dairies in California, and to assist the dairies with education and resources to protect their workers, including providing personal protective equipment. How did the cows get avian influenza?

The mostly likely way for a cow to become infected with flu is exposure to other cows that are infected, but the virus can also be spread by dirty hands or shoes when people have contact with an uninfected animal after contact with an infected one, or by contact with contaminated equipment.

The HPAI virus has been detected in North American wild birds in the U.S. since 2022, with occasional transmission into domestic poultry or wild mammals in almost all states, including California. The detection of HPAI in cattle is not unexpected. In March, 2024, the first detection in cattle was confirmed in Texas, most likely due to a single spillover event from wild birds. Since that time, the USDA has linked new detections in cattle to the interstate and regional movement of infected or contaminated livestock, people, and equipment. Are the dairies under quarantine?

Yes. The dairies have been placed under quarantine on the authority of CDFA’s State Veterinarian, and enhanced biosecurity measures are in place. Sick cows are isolated and are being treated at the dairies; healthy cows have been cleared to continue shipping milk for pasteurization. Animal movement is being tracked and evaluated, as are other potential introduction pathways. Additional testing will be prioritized according to epidemiologic risk. The investigation and response are ongoing. How serious is this HPAI virus for California livestock herds and poultry flocks?

CDFA is engaged with an extensive network of private veterinarians, farmers and ranchers, backyard bird enthusiasts, and local, state and federal partners to actively monitor for this disease in livestock and poultry throughout California. CDFA has taken steps to reduce the risk of entry of infected dairy cattle into the state, has extensive experience conducting a rapid response to past detections of HPAI in poultry, and is fully prepared to respond to detections in cattle.

Cattle: Most infected livestock and dairy cattle fully recover from an HPAI infection within a few weeks. Dairy cattle can show clinical signs of infection such as reduced milk production; thicker, concentrated, colostrum‐like milk; a decrease in feed consumption; abnormal, tacky or loose feces; lethargy; dehydration; and fever.

Birds: No California domestic poultry flocks are affected by the current incident. Avian influenza viruses continue to circulate normally among migratory and wild birds. When some strains, known as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), are introduced by wild birds into domestic poultry farms, they can result in very high mortality in those flocks. In those cases, the affected flocks/sites are placed under quarantine and extensive response activities and public/industry outreach efforts are conducted to eliminate those outbreaks and protect uninfected birds and flocks. Are resources available for dairy industry stakeholders?

The USDA has implemented or expanded a number of programs to support affected dairy premises. These include the Dairy Herd Status Program and financial assistance for the heat treatment and disposal of milk, veterinary costs, personal protective equipment (PPE), milk loss offset, biosecurity planning and implementation, and shipping cost offset for H5N1 testing.

Public health officials have experience working with agricultural partners and supporting farm workers working with infected poultry to prevent and monitor for infection over the last two years. The recommendations are that PPE (masks, gloves, caps, face shields, and safety goggles) be worn by farm workers and emergency responders when working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with bird flu. Earlier this summer, CDPH supported a one-time distribution of protective equipment for dairy farm workers and others handling raw dairy products, as well as slaughterhouse and commercial poultry farm workers. CDPH continues to support affected farms with a limited supply of PPE, while supplies last, to dairies with confirmed positive cases. Additional Resources

This nationwide outbreak of HPAI H5N1 began in poultry in 2022 and was first detected in US dairy cattle in March 2024. All detections in cattle can be found on the USDA website under: USDA HPAI in Livestock.

For the most up-to-date information regarding highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in livestock in California, please visit CDFA HPAI in Livestock.

For public inquiries regarding highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) affecting domestic livestock and poultry in California, please call: 916-217-7517 or send an e-mail to cdfa.HPAIinfo@cdfa.gov.

For media inquiries, please call 916-654-0462 or send an e-mail to OfficeOfPublicAffairs@cdfa.ca.gov.

CDFA - AHFSS - AHB - H5N1 Bird Flu Virus in Livestock

https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/AHFSS/Animal_Health/HPAI.html

**Commonground** · September 2, 2024, 01:46 PM

HPAI Confirmed Cases in Livestock | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/hpai-confirmed-cases-livestock

**Pathfinder** · September 4, 2024, 10:30 AM

Officials confirm H5N1 bird flu outbreaks in three California dairy farms

By Susanne Rust
Staff Writer
Sept. 4, 2024 3 AM PT
...
Health officials announced last week that they suspected cows at three Central Valley dairies had contracted the illness, and were awaiting testing for confirmation. On Tuesday, officials said those tests revealed that the strain of virus that infected California herds was nearly identical to that found in Colorado dairy herds — suggesting the infections were the result of interstate transfer of cattle.

The B3.13 genetic sequence found in the infected cows was clearly the result of “anthropogenic movement; essentially zero chance it was an independent spill from wild birds into these dairies,” said Bryan Richards, the Emerging Disease Coordinator at the U.S. Geological Survey’s National Wildlife Health Center. “So, if anyone is trying to blame wild birds: Nope!”
...
The location of the herds has not been divulged. The federal government provides county data on infected poultry, but only statewide figures for dairy.

“We do not tend to share that because sometimes there are only one or two dairies in a certain county, and due to privacy concerns, we tend to refer folks to the state,” said Will Clement, a spokesman for the USDA. “If the state department of ag wants to share that information, that is their purview. But we don’t want to out anybody, if you will, in any specific region,” he said.
...

Officials confirm H5N1 bird flu outbreaks in three California dairy farms

https://www.latimes.com/environment/story/2024-09-04/bird-flu-outbreaks-confirmed-in-three-california-dairy-farms

Testing has confirmed H5N1 bird flu outbreaks at three Central Valley dairy farms. Officials say the infections were likely the result of cattle transportation.

**Pathfinder** · September 10, 2024, 01:23 PM

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 Detected in California Dairies - What Ranchers Need to Know

Author: Gabriele U Maier

Published on: September 9, 2024

Dr. Gabriele Maier, Professor of Extension, Beef Cattle Herd Health and Production, UC Davis

September 2024

What happened? The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) announced in a press release on August 30^th, 2024 that highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) was detected in three dairies in the Central Valley. The outbreak of this flu virus in dairy cattle was first reported in the Texas panhandle in the spring of this year after several dairy herds had cows become sick with an unidentified illness. The affected cows were lethargic, had a fever, some had clear nasal discharge, diarrhea or dry feces, dropped in feed consumption and milk production, and most remarkably shed thick, colostrum-like milk. Most of the affected cows recovered after a couple of weeks, but their milk production did not reach the same levels as before they became ill. Veterinarians were unable to determine the cause of these outbreaks for some time, but dead birds on the dairies and cats with neurological signs finally raised the suspicion for avian flu. Cats and other mammals often become neurological when infected with HPAI and cats on dairies become infected when drinking raw milk. Samples collected from affected cows indeed came back positive for HPAI and since then, dairy herds in multiple states across the U.S. have tested positive for the virus. For a current and historical overview of affected states go to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) dashboard. As of September 3^rd, 2024, a total of 14 states have diagnosed cases in 197 herds.

How did this virus get into dairy cattle? It is now believed that the virus spilled over from birds to dairy cattle in a single event, i.e. one cow was infected in Texas through bird droppings or a dead bird, and the virus has since spread from cow to cow only. Flu viruses change often, which is why we need a new flu vaccine in people every year. When a host such as a bird gets infected with two types of flu viruses at the same time, the viruses can reassort their genetic material. By random chance events, the newly assorted virus is now capable of infecting a new host, in this case cattle.

How has the virus spread between cattle so quickly? HPAI is shed in large numbers in the milk, even before cows show clinical signs of disease. It is very likely that the virus spreads between cows on a dairy through milking machines. The virus is also shed in small amounts in urine, nasal secretions, and saliva. In a study where dairy heifers were experimentally exposed to the virus via an inhalation mask, heifers only had a temporary increase in nasal discharge without any other clinical signs. However, the same researchers infected the udder of lactating cows experimentally through the teat canal and were able to reproduce the same disease symptoms seen on the affected dairies: abnormal milk, decreased feed intake, watery diarrhea or dry feces, a significant drop in milk production and clear nasal discharge. A preliminary version of this study is available online. Even though there are quarantines and movement restrictions in place for herds where HPAI is found, the rapid spread of the disease shows how interconnected the cattle industry is and how fast and far pathogens can travel. The virus has also been spread from cows to domestic poultry, which are susceptible to HPAI. When HPAI is found in domestic poultry, the typical outcome is that all birds are euthanized. For all these reasons, biosecurity is of utmost importance to curb the spread of HPAI among cattle and poultry.

Is there a risk to people? So far, only a few cases of avian influenza have been reported in dairy workers, none in California yet, and all have had mild symptoms and have recovered. Humans luckily do not appear to be the main target species of this type of avian flu virus even when directly exposed to infected cows, but personal protective equipment (PPE) is highly recommended for those working on dairies. Human safety is paramount, and the USDA offers financial support for affected premises to purchase PPE, such as gloves, goggles, and masks for farm workers. Early on, it was also determined that pasteurization inactivates HPAI virus, so the milk supply stays safe. The USDA is also confident that the meat supply is safe and will be adding H5N1 monitoring in dairy cows at slaughter to its program later in September. It is, however, not recommended for people to consume raw milk as milk appears to be the main vehicle for transmission and may not be safe to drink.

What happens now in California? The staff at the Animal Health branch at CDFA had been preparing for the moment when HPAI would be detected in a California dairy herd. Factsheets and regulations are posted on a dedicated website. Lactating dairy cattle moving interstate from California require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection and a negative HPAI test within seven days of movement. All dairies are urged to increase their biosecurity including cleaning and disinfection of vehicles to transport cattle, restriction of worker movement between dairies and poultry facilities, limiting visitor access to premises, wild bird deterrence, etc. All lactating cattle shown at fairs must have a negative PCR test for the virus from a milk sample within seven days before arriving at the fair. Enhanced biosecurity for dairy cattle at fairs has also been outlined in a factsheet.

Is there a vaccine? There is no vaccine for cattle yet, but several pharmaceutical companies are working on the development of such vaccines. The USDA is also conducting research into a vaccine. If or when a vaccine for cattle will become available is still unknown today, but the flurry of activity is a promising sign.

What do beef ranchers need to consider? No beef cattle have been found to be infected with HPAI to date. Spread within a beef herd would likely be limited because cows aren't being milked. However, beef cows are likely not immune to the virus. Therefore, biosecurity should also be on ranchers' minds, especially for those who have contact with dairy cattle or domestic poultry. You do not want to become a fomite. The biosecurity training provided by the Beef Quality Assurance program is a good starting point to learn how to prevent spread between cattle or between cattle and poultry. Chapter 3 in the BQA manual is full of good information. For example, a trailer that is used to transport cattle from multiple herds should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between loads. Changing clothes and washing boots between visiting different herds should also be practiced. Limiting visitors to the ranch and keeping a visitor log is also encouraged.

The avian influenza outbreak in California dairy cattle is a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of viral diseases and their ability to cross species barriers. It is important to follow the science, listen to guidance from experts, understand that sometimes things change, and we need to adapt with the change. We have successfully overcome Covid19 – we will also get through avian flu in dairy cows. Keep checking the CDFA website to stay informed on the development of this new cattle disease.

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 Detected in California Dairies - What Ranchers Need to Know

https://ucanr.edu/blogs/blogcore/postdetail.cfm?postnum=60584

UCCE Research and Workshops in San Benito, Monterey, and Santa Cruz Counties

**sharon sanders** · September 11, 2024, 01:12 PM

3 more dairy farms -

HPAI Confirmed Cases in Livestock | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/hpai-confirmed-cases-livestock

**sharon sanders** · September 11, 2024, 01:53 PM

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 Virus in Livestock

Information about HPAI in dairy cattle is an evolving, fluid situation with ongoing research and policy development. Please check back frequently as the information below will be updated as it becomes available.

Bovine Health Alert

September 11, 2024: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Confirmed in Three Additional Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in three new dairies in the Central Valley of California. These dairies were in a group targeted for testing due to elevated risks from their recent connections with the initial affected premises. These findings are not unexpected and support CDFA’s implementation of current surveillance strategies with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. This provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

This nationwide outbreak of HPAI H5N1 began in poultry in 2022 and was first detected in US dairy cattle in March 2024. All national detections in cattle can be found on the USDA website under: HPAI Confirmed Cases in Livestock | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (usda.gov). Note that the website is updated at noon Eastern Standard Time.

All affected dairies have been placed under quarantine and enhanced biosecurity measures are in place to prevent the spread of the virus. Sick cows are isolated and are being treated at the dairies. Most infected livestock and dairy cattle can fully recover from HPAI infection within a few weeks.

California's supply of milk and dairy foods is safe and has not been impacted by these events. Healthy cows have been cleared to continue shipping milk for pasteurization. Pasteurization of milk is fully effective at inactivating the virus so, there is no cause for concern for consumers from milk or dairy products. Pasteurized milk and dairy items, as well as properly handled meat and eggs, continue to be safe to consume.

No human cases of HPAI have been confirmed in California related to this incident. According to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), this influenza virus is not considered a significant public health threat and the risk to humans is considered to be low.

Stay Informed:
For the most up-to-date information regarding highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in livestock in California, please visit CDFA - AHFSS - AHB - Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 Virus in Livestock.

For public inquiries regarding highly pathogenic avian influenza in California, please send an e-mail to cdfa.HPAIinfo@cdfa.ca.gov or call 916-217-7517. For media inquiries, please call 916-654-0462 or send an e-mail to OfficeOfPublicAffairs@cdfa.ca.gov. Current HPAI H5N1 in Livestock Guidance For California Producers

Clinical Signs

Infected cattle may be asymptomatic (subclinical) or symptomatic (clinical) and virus is predominantly found in milk and mammary tissue regardless of symptoms.

Clinical signs may include:

Decrease in feed consumption with a simultaneous decrease in rumination and rumen motility
Respiratory signs including clear nasal discharge
Acute drop in milk production. Severely affected cattle may have thicker, concentrated, colostrum-like milk or produce no milk at all.
Abnormal tacky or loose feces
Lethargy
Dehydration
Fever

Sampling Protocol for HPAI in Livestock

Protocol for cows with clinical signs of HPAI
1. For dairies with suspect clinical signs contact your district office for regulatory personnel to conduct a Foreign Animal Disease investigation (FADi).
Protocol for lactating dairy cattle moving interstate (not direct to slaughter movements)
1. All lactating dairy cattle moving interstate require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) and matrix-A negative HPAI test from a National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NALHN) laboratory within seven (7) days of movement.
2. Samples must be collected by an accredited veterinarian, a sample collector approved by a state animal health official, or a designated individual at a farm that was trained to collect milk and nasal swab samples.
3. The sample must be sent to an approved NAHLN laboratory (UC Davis California Animal Health and Food Safety (CAHFS) Laboratory is currently only approved laboratory in California)
4. For groups/lots of 30 or fewer animals moving interstate, all animals being moved must be tested. If more than 30 animals are moving interstate, only 30 animals total must be tested.
Protocol for non-lactating dairy cattle moving interstate and any dairy cattle moving interstate direct to slaughter:
1. Currently no testing required, must have CVI within seven (7) days of movement.

California Movement Restrictions and Interstate Movement Requirements for Dairy Cattle

All dairy breed cattle originating from Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) affected state(s): Must be accompanied by a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) and signed by an accredited veterinarian within seven (7) days of transport that includes the following statement: "All animals identified on this Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) have been inspected within seven (7) days and do not originate from a premises with a confirmed detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) or that is currently under investigation as a suspect premises."

All lactating dairy cattle moving interstate require a CVI and matrix-A negative HPAI test from a NALHN laboratory within seven (7) days of movement, in addition to any state-specific entry requirements of destination state.
Dairy cattle moving interstate direct to slaughter are exempt from the test requirement but do require a CVI or a state-approved owner shipper statement and Premises ID (NPIN), in addition to any state-specific entry requirements of destination state.
Lactating dairy cattle from herds which have tested positive for Influenza A are not eligible for interstate movement for thirty (30) days from the most recent collection of any sample that tests positive from any individual animal in the herd. Re-testing may occur after this 30-day period.
Lactating dairy cattle with clinical signs consistent with HPAI in dairy cattle are ineligible for interstate movement (including to slaughter) as per 9 C.F.R. 71.3(b).

Recommended Biosecurity Measures for Livestock Operations

CDFA strongly encourages dairy farms and processors to:

Review biosecurity protocols, including industry biosecurity resources such as those that may be found on the CDFA website for the Secure Food Supply Program, as well as the resources that can be found on the FARM/NMPF Everyday Biosecurity manual (Biosecurity - National Dairy FARM Program) and the Secure Milk Supply website (Secure Milk Supply Plan).
Continue to be vigilant to observe for clinical signs consistent with this outbreak such as acute loss of animal appetite and rumination; significant/acute drop in milk; changes in manure consistency.
Contact your herd veterinarian if you observe animal conditions outside of the ordinary. This has not currently been reported in California, but it is a reminder to enforce biosecurity on your dairy operation or when visiting other dairy operations.

Disease Spread

The primary introduction of disease into dairy herds has been predominantly via exposure to wild birds. The exact mechanism of spread is currently unknown, although there is potential for viral spread through milk. USDA has identified spread between cows within the same herd, spread from cows to poultry, spread between dairies associated with cattle movements, and cows without clinical signs that have tested positive. On April 16, APHIS microbiologists identified a shift in an H5N1 sample from a cow in Kansas that could indicate that the virus has an adaptation to mammals.

Diagnosis & Prevention

There is no specific treatment or cure for animals infected with HPAI H5N1 and there are currently no vaccines available to prevent this disease. Veterinarians and livestock owners who suspect an animal may have Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 should immediately contact a State or Federal animal health authority.

Testing for HPAI H5N1 in milk samples (lactating cattle) or nasal swab samples (non-lactating cattle) can confirm HPAI H5N1 viral infections.

Even with the best defense measures, HPAI H5N1 can still affect your herd. The following are ways to help protect livestock:

No movement of clinical dairy cattle for 30 days past last matrix-A positive HPAI test
Ensure cattle trailers are only used to haul your cattle or thoroughly clean and disinfect trailers between use.
Adhere to an isolation period of a minimum of 30 days for new arrivals with active observational surveillance for clinical signs.
Feed only heat treated/pasteurized milk to calves and other livestock and heat treat/pasteurize any milk being discarded.
Milk affected animals last with thorough cleaning and disinfection of milking equipment (utilizing dedicated milking units if possible)
Separate animals with clinical signs from healthy animals
Use dedicated coveralls and boots when handling clinical animals (use dedicated farm personnel to only handle clinical animals where possible).
Use good personal hygiene measures including freshly laundered clothes and showering before visiting dairy farms or processing facilities.
Limit vehicle/visitor traffic to strictly essential deliveries/visits (feed, milk, waste removal).
Clean and disinfect vehicles crossing the line of separation and entering/leaving the farm or obtain a commercial car wash before and after visiting a livestock operation.
Engage state and federal wildlife agencies for wild bird mitigation.

CDFA appreciates your efforts to protect livestock health in California on a daily basis. Remember, people, equipment, and vehicles can easily spread dangerous diseases from one location to another.

More information on HPAI H5N1 in Livestock