U.S. Battles H5N1 in 42 Dairy Herds Across 9 States; $100M Allocated for Surveillance

May 10, 2024, 11:14 AM

The United States is grappling with a significant outbreak of H5N1 avian influenza among dairy cattle, with 42 herds affected across 9 states. Health experts, including those from the USDA and CDC, are intensifying efforts to monitor and control the spread, backed by $100 million in funding. This includes exploring vaccine options for cattle and implementing guidelines to prevent infected dairy products from entering the food supply. Despite these measures, there is worry about the virus's ability to adapt for mammalian transmission, evidenced by its presence in asymptomatic cows and detections in grocery milk and wastewater. The situation underscores the unpredictable nature of H5N1 and the need for rigorous surveillance and preparedness.