
The USDA expands its National Milk Testing Strategy to 28 states, covering 65% of U.S. milk production, in response to the H5N1 bird flu threat in dairy cattle.
At a Glance
- USDA’s National Milk Testing Strategy now includes 28 states, up from initial 6
- California and Texas are the only states with active H5N1 detections in dairy cattle
- Over 110,000 milk samples tested since March 2024 outbreak
- USDA working on vaccine development for poultry and bovine species
- HHS announces over $300 million in funding for H5N1 response efforts
USDA Expands National Milk Testing Strategy
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has significantly expanded its National Milk Testing Strategy (NMTS) to include 28 states, a substantial increase from the initial six states when the program launched. This expansion now covers 65% of U.S. milk production, marking a crucial step in monitoring and controlling the spread of the H5N1 bird flu virus in dairy cattle.
The newly added states to the NMTS include Alabama, Arizona, Delaware, Iowa, Georgia, Kansas, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Utah, and Virginia. This strategic expansion aims to enhance biosecurity protocols within the dairy industry and strengthen public health defenses against potential flu outbreaks.
The USDA is starting a mandatory milk testing program to see how widespread the bird flu virus is on dairy farms https://t.co/6FWVjQV2ID
— STAT (@statnews) December 6, 2024
Current State of H5N1 Detections
Currently, California and Texas are the only states with active H5N1 detections in dairy cattle. The NMTS involves a five-tiered framework of testing activity, with California in Stage 3 due to its rapid response measures. This targeted approach allows for efficient allocation of resources and swift action in areas of concern.
“Across the country, a strong network of public and private veterinarians, as well as state and local agriculture and health officials, have been working hand-in-hand with the USDA to make the National Milk Testing Strategy as robust a weapon as possible in our fight against H5N1, and to ensure farmers have the information and tools they need to protect their businesses, their families, their workers, and ultimately their communities,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.
Since the outbreak began in March 2024, over 110,000 milk samples have been tested, demonstrating the USDA’s commitment to thorough surveillance and early detection. This extensive testing regimen is crucial for maintaining the safety of the dairy supply chain and protecting public health.
Vaccine Development and Biosecurity Measures
In addition to the testing strategy, the USDA is actively working on vaccine development for both poultry and bovine species to combat H5N1. Seven vaccine candidates for dairy cattle have been approved for field safety trials, marking a significant step forward in the fight against the virus.
The USDA continues to emphasize the importance of strong biosecurity practices and offers support programs for producers. These measures are crucial in preventing the spread of the virus and protecting the livelihoods of farmers and the safety of consumers.
Government Response and Funding
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced over $300 million in funding for H5N1 response efforts, underscoring the government’s commitment to addressing this potential threat. While HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra has stated that the risk to humans remains low, preparations for various scenarios are ongoing to ensure readiness.
Additionally, Vilsack also said the “USDA remains fully committed to working with farmers and our public health partners to evolve our strategy based on our latest findings so we can keep people and animals safe from this virus.”
The expansion of the National Milk Testing Strategy, combined with ongoing vaccine development and increased funding, demonstrates a comprehensive approach to managing the H5N1 threat. As the situation evolves, the USDA and other government agencies continue to adapt their strategies to protect both animal and human health.
Sources:
- https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-begin-bulk-milk-testing-bird-flu-after-push-industry-2024-10-30/
- https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/avian-influenza-bird-flu/fifteen-more-states-enroll-usda-milk-testing-program
- https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/news/press-releases/2025/01/08/us-department-agriculture-announces-15-additional-states-onboard-national-milk-testing-strategy-h5n1
- https://www.theepochtimes.com/us/more-states-join-usdas-milk-testing-program-to-monitor-for-bird-flu-5788528