Virus found in Idaho cattle puts dairy production at risk

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture is encouraging dairy producers to closely monitor their herds after it identified highly pathogenic avian influenza in a Cassia County dairy cattle operation on Thursday.

These are the first cases of the virus in a livestock operation in Idaho, according to a press release from the department. The affected facility recently imported cattle from another state that has identified cases of the virus in cattle, suggesting the virus may be transmitted cow-to-cow, in addition to reports showing cattle can acquire the virus from infected birds. 

The disease is associated with decreased milk production, which is the department’s primary concern, the press release said. 

The department recommends dairy producers contact their local veterinarian immediately if their cattle are showing the following symptoms: 

• Drop in milk production
• Loss of appetite
• Changes in manure consistency
• Thickened or colostrum-like milk
• Low-grade fever

Highly pathogenic avian influenza is a mandatory reportable disease, and any veterinarians who suspect cases of the virus in livestock should contact the Idaho State Department of Agriculture immediately at 208-332-8540, or complete the virus screening online. 

The department is also recommending livestock facilities enhance their biosecurity measures. Biosecurity resources can be found at the department website. 

There is no concern about the safety of commercial milk supply or its impact to consumer health at this time, the department said. The pasteurization process of heating milk to a high temperature ensures dairy products can be safely consumed, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

This is an ongoing issue, and more updates will be available on the Idaho State Department of Agriculture website.