The nation’s milk supply must be tested for avian influenza under a new federal order announced Friday by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Entities that handle raw milk, such as bulk milk transporters and dairy processors, must collect and share samples with USDA upon request.
The goal is to quickly identify dairy herds affected by H5N1, a strain of avian influenza that has caused outbreaks in poultry and dairy cattle, and prevent transmission between livestock. As of Thursday, 718 dairy herds affected.
“Among many accomplishments, this will give farmers and farmworkers greater confidence in the safety of their livestock and their ability to protect themselves, and will quickly control and stop the spread of the virus across the country,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. It will lead you on a path to do so.” said in a press release on Friday..
First reported first round of testing based on new instructions via Reutersis scheduled to start on December 16th.
This is a developing story. Please check back for the latest information.
