Avian Flu Detected in Idaho Dairy Farms, Affecting Milk Production
Source: The DairyNews
The Idaho State Department of Agriculture announced on Friday that avian flu has been detected in a dairy operation in Minidoka County, marking the first such occurrence in the area.
Previously, two Jerome County dairy farms tested positive for the virus last week, following the initial detection in early April at a Cassia County farm, which had received cows from a Texas dairy affected by the outbreak.
State Veterinarian Dr. Scott Leibsle reported that between 10 to 20% of cows at the impacted facilities have contracted the virus, leading to a notable economic impact on farmers. Affected cows exhibit reduced milk production and feed intake, but they typically resume normal production levels within a few weeks after recovery, according to Dr. Leibsle.
While the avian flu has led to sickness among a large number of cattle, fatalities have been rare with most recovering within 10 to 15 days. In contrast, the impact on poultry has been more severe, often resulting in fatal outcomes and greater economic losses.
Dr. Leibsle emphasized the ongoing risk of transmission from birds to livestock and recommended that farmers prioritize prevention strategies, including maintaining clean equipment. He also noted that while the safety of consuming raw milk from affected cows remains undetermined, pasteurized milk continues to be safe for consumption.
State Veterinarian Dr. Scott Leibsle reported that between 10 to 20% of cows at the impacted facilities have contracted the virus, leading to a notable economic impact on farmers. Affected cows exhibit reduced milk production and feed intake, but they typically resume normal production levels within a few weeks after recovery, according to Dr. Leibsle.
While the avian flu has led to sickness among a large number of cattle, fatalities have been rare with most recovering within 10 to 15 days. In contrast, the impact on poultry has been more severe, often resulting in fatal outcomes and greater economic losses.
Dr. Leibsle emphasized the ongoing risk of transmission from birds to livestock and recommended that farmers prioritize prevention strategies, including maintaining clean equipment. He also noted that while the safety of consuming raw milk from affected cows remains undetermined, pasteurized milk continues to be safe for consumption.
