New cases of avian influenza H5N1 have been detected in the Midwest and Texas

According to the latest federal statistics, the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1 has affected two major facilities in the Midwest region and a dairy herd of cattle in Texas. The USDA has recorded six new cases over the past week. Specifically, a commercial turkey farm in Stearns County (Minnesota) with a flock of 34,400 birds and a meat duck enterprise in Jay County (Indiana) housing 24,300 birds were affected.

In addition, officials confirmed an H5N1 infection in another Texas dairy herd. All three detections of the virus in cattle nationwide over the past 30 days are located in Texas. Infected cows shed large amounts of the virus in their milk, which increases risks for milking parlor workers and underscores the importance of pasteurization.

Minnesota remains the epicenter of autumn virus activity, with the state recording eight affected commercial flocks and three backyard flocks over the past 30 days, encompassing a total of 343,050 birds. Nationwide, approximately 550,000 birds across 12 commercial flocks and nine backyard flocks have been affected during this period. Outbreaks on poultry farms are typically eradicated through depopulation of the livestock to prevent further spread of the virus.

Autumn and spring traditionally bring an increase in cases among poultry due to the migration of wild animals along flyways. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the overall risk level to the general public remains low, and no new cases of human infection with novel influenza types were registered in the week leading up to October 3. Workers on poultry and dairy farms, veterinarians, and family members of farmers who come into contact with sick livestock are at the highest risk.