A recent study published in Nature Portfolio has shed light on the devastating impact of an H5N1 avian flu outbreak on a 3,900-cow Ohio dairy herd. Researchers at Cornell University led by their team found that clinically affected cows experienced a significant drop in milk production for 60 days, with losses estimated at $950 per cow. The economic loss was further exacerbated by the removal of infected herds and mortality.
The study revealed that multiparous cows were more susceptible to clinical disease than those lactating for the first time. Seroprevalance findings showed nearly 90% of animals on the farm during the outbreak period tested positive for HPAI H5N1 virus antibodies, indicating high transmission efficacy. Notably, nonlactating cows were also found to be sources of the virus.
The US Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has confirmed additional cases in dairy cattle, mammals, and poultry across the country. Idaho reported three more H5N1 detections, with facilities quarantined in Gooding County. Backyard poultry in five states, including Iowa and New York, were also affected.
The study’s findings support concerns about the rapid spread of influenza A viruses among susceptible mammalian populations, including humans, dogs, and swine. As the outbreak continues to unfold, it is essential for farmers, policymakers, and public health officials to work together to mitigate its impact.
Source: https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/avian-influenza-bird-flu/h5n1-dairy-cow-study-finds-sustained-milk-production-drop-extensive