Minnesota Dairy Farms to Begin Mandatory Testing for Avian Influenza
Agriculture officials in Minnesota are set to begin mandatory testing of milk from the state’s dairy farms for the highly pathogenic avian influenza, known as H5N1. This decision follows a federal order by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for national testing, which initially began with six states and has expanded to 28 states that collectively produce nearly two-thirds of the nation's milk supply.
According to the USDA, the primary objective of this extensive testing is to better understand the prevalence of the H5N1 virus within dairy herds and to guide efforts aimed at preventing its further spread. Notably, avian influenza has already been confirmed in dairy cattle across 16 states, including Minnesota, which reported nine cases last year. California, having witnessed over 700 affected dairy herds, has even declared a state of emergency.
Thom Petersen, Minnesota’s Agriculture Commissioner, emphasized the importance of controlling the disease and expressed the state’s commitment to ensuring public safety, especially given the current situation in California. Petersen noted the considerable impact of the virus on the poultry industry in Minnesota, where it has led to the deaths of millions of commercial turkeys and chickens since 2022.
While avian influenza is not typically fatal in dairy cattle, it can result in reduced appetite, lower milk production, and thickened or discolored milk. Starting February 1, milk testing will commence, with labs working collaboratively with farmers to collect raw or unpasteurized milk samples that are already routinely submitted for inspection. Petersen pointed out the success of a similar mandatory testing program in Colorado and expressed hopes for effectively isolating the virus in Minnesota.
The initiative also aims to notify nearby farms about the virus’s presence, particularly when workers or vehicles move between farms. Despite some national reluctance among farmers due to economic concerns, Minnesota’s dairy farmers are reportedly supportive of the testing program. Lucas Sjostrom, Executive Director of the Minnesota Milk Producers Association, confirmed that the organization backs the state’s plans to test every dairy farm using existing monthly samples.
Tackling the disease’s symptoms is complicated, as some signs of H5N1 resemble common metabolic disorders on farms, making it difficult to ascertain the virus’s exact reach. Currently, there is no evidence pointing to the presence of the virus in Minnesota's dairy cattle, though Petersen cautions that conditions can change suddenly, necessitating readiness.
The public is reassured that consuming pasteurized dairy products remains safe, as pasteurization effectively inactivates the virus. However, Minnesota law permits the sale of raw milk on farms, which will not be part of the initial testing. Petersen advises those consuming raw milk to engage with farmers about their protective measures against the virus.
