Diagnostics continue in dairy industry

The following statement may be attributed to the Texas Farm Bureau. 

On Monday, March 25, USDA officials announced that samples from infected dairies in Texas and Kansas tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). The HPAI virus detections in Texas may have been introduced by wild birds.

Federal and state agencies are conducting additional tests for HPAI, as well as viral genome sequencing, so the emerging situation can be better understood.

Officials reiterate it is not confirmed if HPAI is the lone causative agent of the bovine illness.

Further efforts to continue epidemiolocal investigations are underway to ensure the full picture of the situation is considered.

Our commercial milk supply remains safe due to both federal animal health requirements and pasteurization. Our nation’s beef supply remains safe and is not impacted by the test findings, according to officials. 

Texas Farm Bureau appreciates the work of state animal health officials, veterinarians and dairy farmers as they work diligently to investigate the cause of the illness.