High Pathogen Avian Influenza (HPAI) Still A Threat
HPAI is continuing to be an active threat to the poultry industry, which includes emus, along with the dairy industry.
In a January 2025 article by Kimberly Dodd, Michigan State University, in “The Conversation”, Kimberly pointed out that after a relatively quiet Fall, reports of HPAI have started to spike.
A disturbing fact is that HPAI has also been found in species other that birds. Almost 11 million birds and more than 900 cattle herds have been affected nationwide. Besides ducks and geese, along with other wild and domestic birds, and more recently cattle, a significant number of scavenging wild animals that eat infected carcasses have been reported with HPAI – such as raccoons, skunks, foxes and bobcats – as well as marine mammals, and they have also died from the virus. It has been found in domestic cats, some that got the disease by drinking infected raw milk. The CDC has also confirmed some mild cases of HPAI in humans, and a fatal case in Louisiana in January 2025.
Avian influenza viruses are considered influenza A viruses. Interestingly, influenza D viruses are the ones that primarily infect cattle. But, the current H5N1 circulating in dairy cattle is the same influenza A virus as seen in the ongoing outbreak in birds.
This is of particular concern, as only influenza A viruses have been associated with human pandemics.
How do we manage H5N1 moving forward?
Biosecurity for poultry and dairy facilities is more critical than ever. Biosecurity measures include limiting visitors to farms and facilities; disinfecting tools, footwear and equipment; avoiding contact between infected and non-infected species; and isolating sick animals.
And, DO NOT “snuggle” near your face with your birds, cattle, cats and other animals. Wash your hands after petting or handling birds and animals. Change into clean clothes after being with the birds or animal or when you have been in their pens.
These measures play an important role in both containing the virus and keeping it away from other animals, properties and people.
To read the entire article – www.morningagclips.com/bird-flu-flares-up-again-an-infectious-disease-expert-weighs-in/ .
Biosecurity Tips For HPAI – www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/livestock/enhance-biosecurity .