H5N1 Bird Flu Virus in Livestock

To report an unusual number of sick livestock, or if you suspect Bird Flu in your livestock, call: 1-866-922-2473

Information about H5N1 Bird Flu in dairy cattle is an evolving, fluid situation with ongoing research and policy development. Please check back frequently as the information below will be updated as it becomes available.

Livestock Health Alert

December 2, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in 14 New California Dairies

SACRAMENTO, CA — — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in 14 new dairies in Central California. Since California’s first detection of H5N1 Bird Flu in dairies, there have been a total of 475 affected dairies and several dairies are expected to have their quarantines released in the coming weeks as their farms have fully recovered. All quarantine released dairies will be placed on a surveillance list for weekly testing through creameries to maintain continued monitoring of the virus in California.

Bird Flu in Humans

For the most up to date data on bird flu cases in California, please visit CDPH’s Current Bird Flu Situation dashboard. While the risk to the general public remains low, additional human cases of bird flu are expected to be identified and confirmed in California. CDPH recommends that personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye protection (face shields or safety goggles), respirators (N95 masks), and gloves be worn by anyone working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with the bird flu virus. Wearing PPE helps prevent infection. Please see CDPH's Please see CDPH’s Worker Protection from Bird Flu for full PPE guidance. For the latest updates from CDPH, visit Bird Flu (ca.gov). If you have any questions, comments or concerns, you can submit an inquiry directly to CDPH.

National Detections

This nationwide outbreak of H5N1 Bird Flu began in poultry in 2022 and was first detected in US dairy cattle in March 2024. All national detections in cattle can be found on the USDA website at: HPAI Confirmed Cases in Livestock | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (usda.gov) and all national detections in poultry can be found on the USDA website at: Confirmations of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Commercial and Backyard Flocks | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (usda.gov)

Inquiries?

For public inquiries regarding highly pathogenic avian influenza in California, please send an e-mail to cdfa.HPAIinfo@cdfa.ca.gov or call 916-217-7517. For media inquiries, please call 916-654-0462 or send an e-mail to OfficeOfPublicAffairs@cdfa.ca.gov.

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H5N1 Avian Influenza in Livestock Overview (10/11/2024)

H5N1 Bird Flu in CA Dairy Cow Q & A 2024 (Coming soon)

H5N1 Bird Flu Dairy Cow Quarantine Release Requirements (12/2/2024)

Livestock Guidance Handouts and Forms for California Producers

CDFA Dairy Cattle Import Order: Bovine Associated Influenza A (H5N1) Syndrome Entry Requirements for Importing Dairy Breed Cattle from Affected states (4/4/2024)

Healthy Dairy Cattle HPAI Testing Protocols for Monitored Herd, Pre-Movement, and Non-Monitored Herd Surveillance (10/30/2024)

Biosecurity Recommendations to Protect Your Herd (11/15/2024) — Español (11/15/2024)

What to Expect if You Suspect H5N1 Bird Flu in Your Herd Herd (11/13/2024) — Español (11/15/2024)

CDFA HPAI in Livestock Monitored Herd Pilot Program Requirements (6/14/2024) CDFA HPAI in Livestock Monitored Herd Agreement 9/23/2024) CDFA Dairy Cow Exhibit Guidance Document for Fair Organizers (9/3/2024) CDFA Dairy Cow Exhibit Guidance Document for Dairy Cattle Exhibitors (9/16/2024) Biosecurity Guidance for Dairy Regulatory Inspections Visiting a Dairy Farm (11/22/2024) Biosecurity Guidance for Livestock Haulers Visiting a Dairy Farm (11/22/2024) Biosecurity Guidance for Feed Haulers Visiting a Dairy Farm (11/22/2024) Biosecurity Guidance for Milk Haulers Visiting a Dairy Farm (11/22/2024) Livestock Hauler at Sales Yard Guidance (10/17/2024) Dairy Producer Best Practices During H5N1 Bird Flu in Livestock: Mortality Management (11/22/2024) California Dairy Producer Guide to Intrastate HPAI Cattle Movements (10/28/24) State of California Guidance on Bird Flu for Workers and Employers (11/05/2024)

Requirements for Affected Lactating Livestock and What to Expect

Quarantine Notice for H5N1 Bird Flu Affected Dairies (10/10/2024) Quarantine Notice for H5N1 Bird Flu Affected Markets (10/10/2024) Quarantine Notice for County Fairs with Lactating Dairy Cattle (10/10/2024)

Quarantine Attachment A: Required Biosecurity Practices for HPAI High Risk Commercial Dairy Premises (10/11/2024) | Español (10/10/2024)

Quarantine Attachment B: Required Enhanced Biosecurity Practices for Dairies with H5N1 (10/10/2024) | Español (10/10/2024)

Quarantine Attachment C: Movement of Calves from HPAI Infected Dairies Requirements (11/13/2024) Quarantine Attachment D: Requirements for Movement of Cattle from State Quarantined H5N1 Infected California Dairies (10/30/2024) Quarantine Attachment F: Lactating Dairy Cattle Fair Entry Requirements (10/10/2024) Quarantine Attachment H: California Biosecurity Practices to Move Heifers from H5N1-Infected Dairies to Heifer Ranch and Back to Dairy of Origin (10/30/2024) Quarantine Attachment M: Requirements for Saleyard or Market to Sell Dry Cull Dairy Cattle from HPAI Infected Dairies in Slaughter Only Sale (10/11/2024)

Historical H5N1 Bird Flu Incidents in Livestock

2024 H5N1 Bird Flu Incidents in Livestock

November 27, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in 25 New California Dairies

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in 25 new dairies in Central California. Since California’s first detection of H5N1 Bird Flu in dairies, there have been a total of 461 affected dairies and several dairies are expected to have their quarantines released in the coming weeks as their farms have fully recovered. All quarantine released dairies will be placed on a surveillance list for weekly testing through creameries to maintain continued monitoring of the virus in California.

Bird Flu in Humans

For the most up to date data on bird flu cases in California, please visit CDPH’s Current Bird Flu Situation dashboard. While the risk to the general public remains low, additional human cases of bird flu are expected to be identified and confirmed in California. CDPH recommends that personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye protection (face shields or safety goggles), respirators (N95 masks), and gloves be worn by anyone working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with the bird flu virus. Wearing PPE helps prevent infection. Please see CDPH’s Worker Protection from Bird Flu for full PPE guidance. For the latest updates from CDPH, visit Bird Flu (ca.gov). If you have any questions, comments or concerns, you can submit an inquiry directly to CDPH.

National Detections

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November 26, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in 34 New California Dairies

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in 34 new dairies in Central California. Since California’s first detection of H5N1 Bird Flu in dairies, there have been a total of 436 affected dairies and several dairies are expected to have their quarantines released in the coming weeks as their farms have fully recovered. All quarantine released dairies will be placed on a surveillance list for weekly testing through creameries to maintain continued monitoring of the virus in California.

Bird Flu in Humans

For the most up to date data on bird flu cases in California, please visit CDPH’s Current Bird Flu Situation dashboard. While the risk to the general public remains low, additional human cases of bird flu are expected to be identified and confirmed in California. CDPH recommends that personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye protection (face shields or safety goggles), respirators (N95 masks), and gloves be worn by anyone working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with the bird flu virus. Wearing PPE helps prevent infection. Please see CDPH’s Worker Protection from Bird Flu for full PPE guidance. For the latest updates from CDPH, visit Bird Flu (ca.gov). If you have any questions, comments or concerns, you can submit an inquiry directly to CDPH.

National Detections

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November 22, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in 66 New California Dairies

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in 66 new dairies in Central California. Since California’s first detection of H5N1 Bird Flu in dairies, there have been a total of 402 affected dairies and several dairies are expected to have their quarantines released in the coming week as their farms have fully recovered. All quarantine released dairies will be placed on a surveillance list for weekly testing through creameries to maintain continued monitoring of the virus in California.

Bird Flu in Humans

For the most up to date data on bird flu cases in California, please visit CDPH’s Current Bird Flu Situation dashboard. While the risk to the general public remains low, additional human cases of bird flu are expected to be identified and confirmed in California. CDPH recommends that personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye protection (face shields or safety goggles), respirators (N95 masks), and gloves be worn by anyone working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with the bird flu virus. Wearing PPE helps prevent infection. Please see CDPH’s Worker Protection from Bird Flu for full PPE guidance. For the latest updates from CDPH, visit Bird Flu (ca.gov). If you have any questions, comments or concerns, you can submit an inquiry directly to CDPH.

National Detections

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November 19, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in 336 Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in 336 dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

As of November 18, 2024, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has confirmed twenty-seven (27) human cases of bird flu and 1 additional probable case with dairy cow exposure that meets the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists (CSTE) probable case definition in California. All individuals had contact with animals at different farms and all have experienced mild symptoms, including eye redness or discharge (conjunctivitis). None of the individuals have been hospitalized. While the risk to the general public remains low, additional human cases of bird flu are expected to be identified and confirmed in California among individuals who have contact with infected dairy cattle. CDPH recommends that personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye protection (face shields or safety goggles), respirators (N95 masks), and gloves be worn by anyone working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with the bird flu virus. Wearing PPE helps prevent infection. Please see CDPH’s Worker Protection from Bird Flu for full PPE guidance. For the latest updates from CDPH, visit Bird Flu (ca.gov). If you have any questions, comments or concerns, you can submit an inquiry directly to CDPH.

National Detections

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November 18, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in 335 Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA —– Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in 335 dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

As of November 15, 2024, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has confirmed twenty-six (26) human cases of bird flu and 1 additional probable case with dairy cow exposure that meets the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists (CSTE) probable case definition in California. All individuals had contact with animals at different farms and all have experienced mild symptoms, including eye redness or discharge (conjunctivitis). None of the individuals have been hospitalized. While the risk to the general public remains low, additional human cases of bird flu are expected to be identified and confirmed in California among individuals who have contact with infected dairy cattle. CDPH recommends that personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye protection (face shields or safety goggles), respirators (N95 masks), and gloves be worn by anyone working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with the bird flu virus. Wearing PPE helps prevent infection. Please see CDPH’s Worker Protection from Bird Flu for full PPE guidance. For the latest updates from CDPH, visit Bird Flu (ca.gov). If you have any questions, comments or concerns, you can submit an inquiry directly to CDPH.

National Detections

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November 15, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in 294 Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA —– Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in 294 dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

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November 12, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in 278 Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA —– Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in 278 dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

As of November 6, 2024, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has confirmed twenty-one (21) human cases of bird flu and 1 additional probable case with dairy cow exposure that meets the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists (CSTE) probable case definition in California. All individuals had contact with animals at different farms and all have experienced mild symptoms, including eye redness or discharge (conjunctivitis). None of the individuals have been hospitalized. While the risk to the general public remains low, additional human cases of bird flu are expected to be identified and confirmed in California among individuals who have contact with infected dairy cattle. CDPH recommends that personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye protection (face shields or safety goggles), respirators (N95 masks), and gloves be worn by anyone working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with the bird flu virus. Wearing PPE helps prevent infection. Please see CDPH’s Worker Protection from Bird Flu for full PPE guidance. For the latest updates from CDPH, visit Bird Flu (ca.gov). If you have any questions, comments or concerns, you can submit an inquiry directly to CDPH.

National Detections

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November 11, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in 277 Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA —– Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in 277 dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

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November 8, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in 259 Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in 259 dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

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November 7, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in 236 Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in 236 dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

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November 5, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in 233 Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in 233 dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

As of November 4, 2024, CDPH has confirmed twenty (20) human cases of bird flu and 1 additional probable case with dairy cow exposure that meets the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists (CSTE) probable case definition in California. All individuals had contact with animals at different farms and all have experienced mild symptoms, including eye redness or discharge (conjunctivitis). None of the individuals have been hospitalized. While the risk to the general public remains low, additional human cases of bird flu are expected to be identified and confirmed in California among individuals who have contact with infected dairy cattle. CDPH recommends that personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye protection (face shields or safety goggles), respirators (N95 masks), and gloves be worn by anyone working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with the bird flu virus. Wearing PPE helps prevent infection. Please see CDPH’s Worker Protection from Bird Flu for full PPE guidance. For the latest updates from CDPH, visit Bird Flu (ca.gov).

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November 4, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in 233 Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in 233 dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

As of November 1, 2024, CDPH has confirmed nineteen (19) human cases of bird flu and 1 additional probable case with dairy cow exposure that meets the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists (CSTE) probable case definition in California. All individuals had contact with animals at different farms and all have experienced mild symptoms, including eye redness or discharge (conjunctivitis). None of the individuals have been hospitalized. While the risk to the general public remains low, additional human cases of bird flu are expected to be identified and confirmed in California among individuals who have contact with infected dairy cattle. CDPH recommends that personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye protection (face shields or safety goggles), respirators (N95 masks), and gloves be worn by anyone working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with the bird flu virus. Wearing PPE helps prevent infection. Please see CDPH’s Worker Protection from Bird Flu for full PPE guidance. For the latest updates from CDPH, visit Bird Flu (ca.gov).

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November 1, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in 203 Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in 203 dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

As of October 28, 2024, CDPH has confirmed sixteen (16) human cases of bird flu in California. All individuals had contact with animals at different farms and all have experienced mild symptoms, including eye redness or discharge (conjunctivitis). None of the individuals have been hospitalized. While the risk to the general public remains low, additional human cases of bird flu are expected to be identified and confirmed in California among individuals who have contact with infected dairy cattle. CDPH recommends that personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye protection (face shields or safety goggles), respirators (N95 masks), and gloves be worn by anyone working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with the bird flu virus. Wearing PPE helps prevent infection. Please see CDPH’s Worker Protection from Bird Flu for full PPE guidance. For the latest updates from CDPH, visit Bird Flu (ca.gov).

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October 31, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in 202 Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in 202 dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

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October 30, 2024: First Detection of H5N1 Confirmed in Swine in Oregon

On October 30, 2024, USDA APHIS and Oregon State Veterinary officials confirmed H5N1 in one pig in Oregon, marking the first detection of H5N1 in swine in the United States. There is no concern about the safety of the nation’s pork supply as a result of this development. When cooked and handled properly, pork remains safe to eat. The risks to human health from this strain of avian influenza remain low. It is also important to note that this finding was in a backyard farm of mixed poultry and livestock, including swine.

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October 30, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in One Hundred Ninety-Three Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — – Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in one hundred ninety-three (193) dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

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October 29, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in One Hundred Eighty-Six Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in one hundred eighty-six (186) dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

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October 28, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in One Hundred Seventy-Eight Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in one hundred seventy-eight (178) dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

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October 24, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in One Hundred Thirty-Seven Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in one hundred thirty-seven (137) dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

As of October 23, 2024, CDPH has confirmed fifteen (15) human cases of bird flu in California. All individuals had contact with animals at different farms and all have experienced mild symptoms, including eye redness or discharge (conjunctivitis). None of the individuals have been hospitalized. While the risk to the general public remains low, additional human cases of bird flu are expected to be identified and confirmed in California among individuals who have contact with infected dairy cattle. CDPH recommends that personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye protection (face shields or safety goggles), respirators (N95 masks), and gloves be worn by anyone working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with the bird flu virus. Wearing PPE helps prevent infection. Please see CDPH’s Worker Protection from Bird Flu for full PPE guidance. For the latest updates from CDPH, visit Bird Flu (ca.gov).

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October 23, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in One Hundred Thirty-Four Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in one hundred thirty-four (134) dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

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October 22, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in One Hundred Thirty-Three Dairies in California

Bird Flu in Humans

As of October 18, 2024, CDPH has confirmed thirteen (13) human cases of bird flu in California. All individuals had contact with animals at different farms and all have experienced mild symptoms, including eye redness or discharge (conjunctivitis). None of the individuals have been hospitalized. While the risk to the general public remains low, additional human cases of bird flu are expected to be identified and confirmed in California among individuals who have contact with infected dairy cattle. CDPH recommends that personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye protection (face shields or safety goggles), respirators (N95 masks), and gloves be worn by anyone working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with the bird flu virus. Wearing PPE helps prevent infection. Please see CDPH’s Worker Protection from Bird Flu for full PPE guidance. For the latest updates from CDPH, visit Bird Flu (ca.gov).

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October 21, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in One Hundred Thirty-One Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in one hundred thirty-one (131) dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

As of October 18, 2024, CDPH has confirmed thirteen (13) human cases of bird flu in California. All individuals had contact with animals at different farms and all have experienced mild symptoms, including eye redness or discharge (conjunctivitis). None of the individuals have been hospitalized. While the risk to the general public remains low, additional human cases of bird flu are expected to be identified and confirmed in California among individuals who have contact with infected dairy cattle. CDPH recommends that personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye protection (face shields or safety goggles), respirators (N95 masks), and gloves be worn by anyone working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with the bird flu virus. Wearing PPE helps prevent infection. Please see CDPH’s Worker Protection from Bird Flu for full PPE guidance. For the latest updates from CDPH, visit Bird Flu (ca.gov).

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October 18, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in One Hundred Twenty-Four Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in one hundred twenty-four dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

CDPH has confirmed eleven (11) human cases of bird flu in California. All individuals had contact with animals at different farms and all have experienced mild symptoms, including eye redness or discharge (conjunctivitis). None of the individuals have been hospitalized. While the risk to the general public remains low, additional human cases of bird flu are expected to be identified and confirmed in California among individuals who have contact with infected dairy cattle. CDPH recommends that personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye protection (face shields or safety goggles), respirators (N95 masks), and gloves be worn by anyone working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with the bird flu virus. Wearing PPE helps prevent infection. Please see CDPH’s Worker Protection from Bird Flu for full PPE guidance. For the latest updates from CDPH, visit Bird Flu (ca.gov).

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October 17, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in One Hundred Twenty Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in one hundred twenty dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

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October 16, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in One Hundred Five Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in one hundred five dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

CDPH has confirmed six human cases of bird flu in California. All individuals had contact with animals at different farms and all have experienced mild symptoms, including eye redness or discharge (conjunctivitis). None of the individuals have been hospitalized. While the risk to the general public remains low, additional human cases of bird flu are expected to be identified and confirmed in California among individuals who have contact with infected dairy cattle.CDPH recommends that personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye protection (face shields or safety goggles), respirators (N95 masks), and gloves be worn by anyone working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with the bird flu virus. Wearing PPE helps prevent infection. Please see CDPH’s Worker Protection from Bird Flu for full PPE guidance. For the latest updates from CDPH, visit Bird Flu (ca.gov).

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October 11, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in One Hundred Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in one hundred dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

CDPH has confirmed six human cases of bird flu in California. All individuals had contact with animals at different farms and all have experienced mild symptoms, including eye redness or discharge (conjunctivitis). None of the individuals have been hospitalized. While the risk to the general public remains low, additional human cases of bird flu are expected to be identified and confirmed in California among individuals who have contact with infected dairy cattle. CDPH recommends that personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye protection (face shields or safety goggles), respirators (N95 masks), and gloves be worn by anyone working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with the bird flu virus. Wearing PPE helps prevent infection. Please see CDPH's Worker Protection from Bird Flu for full PPE guidance. For the latest updates from CDPH, visit Novel Influenza (Flu) (ca.gov).

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October 10, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in Ninety-Nine Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in ninety-nine dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Bird Flu in Humans

CDPH has confirmed three human cases of bird flu in California and identified two new possible cases. All individuals had contact with animals at different farms and all have experienced mild symptoms, including eye redness or discharge (conjunctivitis). None of the individuals have been hospitalized. While the risk to the general public remains low, additional human cases of bird flu are expected to be identified and confirmed in California among individuals who have contact with infected dairy cattle. CDPH recommends that personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye protection (face shields or safety goggles), respirators (N95 masks), and gloves be worn by anyone working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with the bird flu virus. Wearing PPE helps prevent infection. Please see CDPH’s Worker Protection from Bird Flu for full PPE guidance. For the latest updates from CDPH, visit Novel Influenza (Flu) (ca.gov).

National Detections

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October 9, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in Ninety-Six Dairies in California

Bird Flu in Humans

National Detections

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October 7, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in Eighty-Two Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in eighty-two dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Stay Informed:

This nationwide outbreak of HPAI H5N1 began in poultry in 2022 and was first detected in US dairy cattle in March 2024. All national detections in cattle can be found on the USDA website at: HPAI Confirmed Cases in Livestock | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (usda.gov) and all national detections in poultry can be found on the USDA website at: Confirmations of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Commercial and Backyard Flocks | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (usda.gov)

October 4, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in Fifty-Six Dairies in California

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October 3, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in Fifty-Five Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in fifty-five dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

All affected dairies have been placed under quarantine. Enhanced biosecurity measures are in place to prevent the spread of the virus. Sick cows are isolated and being treated at the dairies. Most infected livestock and dairy cattle can fully recover from HPAI infection within a few weeks.

California's supply of milk and dairy foods is safe and has not been impacted by these events. Healthy cows have been cleared to continue shipping milk for pasteurization. Pasteurization of milk is fully effective at inactivating the virus, so there is no cause for concern for consumers of milk or dairy products that have undergone this process. Pasteurized milk and dairy items, as well as properly handled meat and eggs, continue to be safe to consume.

According to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), this influenza virus is not considered a significant public health threat, and the risk to humans continue to be considered low.

Stay Informed: This nationwide outbreak of HPAI H5N1 began in poultry in 2022 and was first detected in US dairy cattle in March 2024. All national detections in cattle can be found on the USDA website at: HPAI Confirmed Cases in Livestock | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (usda.gov) and all national detections in poultry can be found on the USDA website at: Confirmations of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Commercial and Backyard Flocks | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (usda.gov)

October 1, 2024: H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in Forty-Four Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in forty-four dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

This nationwide outbreak of HPAI H5N1 began in poultry in 2022 and was first detected in US dairy cattle in March 2024. All national detections in cattle can be found on the USDA website at the following link: HPAI Confirmed Cases in Livestock | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (usda.gov). Note that the website is updated at noon Eastern Standard Time.

No human cases of HPAI related to this incident have been confirmed in California. According to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), this influenza virus is not considered a significant public health threat, and the risk to humans continue to be considered low.

Stay Informed:
This nationwide outbreak of HPAI in dairy cattle began in March 2024 and all detections can be found on the USDA website under: HPAI Confirmed Cases in Livestock | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (usda.gov).

September 30, 2024: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Confirmed in Forty-Three Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in forty-three dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

September 26, 2024: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Confirmed in Forty-One Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in forty-one dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

Stay Informed:
For the most up-to-date information regarding highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in livestock in California, please visit CDFA - AHFSS - AHB - Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 Virus in Livestock.

September 25, 2024: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Confirmed in Forty Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in forty dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

This nationwide outbreak of HPAI H5N1 began in poultry in 2022 and was first detected in US dairy cattle in March 2024. All national detections in cattle can be found on the USDA website at the following link: HPAI Confirmed Cases in Livestock | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (usda.gov). Note that the website is updated at noon Eastern Standard Time.

All affected dairies have been placed under quarantine. Enhanced biosecurity measures are in place to prevent the spread of the virus. Sick cows are isolated and being treated at the dairies. Most infected livestock and dairy cattle can fully recover from HPAI infection within a few weeks.

California's supply of milk and dairy foods is safe and has not been impacted by these events. Healthy cows have been cleared to continue shipping milk for pasteurization. Pasteurization of milk is fully effective at inactivating the virus, so there is no cause for concern for consumers of milk or dairy products that have undergone this process. Pasteurized milk and dairy items, as well as properly handled meat and eggs, continue to be safe to consume.

No human cases of HPAI related to this incident have been confirmed in California. According to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), this influenza virus is not considered a significant public health threat, and the risk to humans continue to be considered low.

September 23, 2024: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Confirmed in Thirty-Four Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in thirty-four dairies in Central California. CDFA has implemented a surveillance strategy with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

This nationwide outbreak of HPAI H5N1 began in poultry in 2022 and was first detected in US dairy cattle in March 2024. All national detections in cattle can be found on the USDA website at the following link: HPAI Confirmed Cases in Livestock | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (usda.gov). Note that the website is updated at noon Eastern Standard Time.

September 19, 2024: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Confirmed in Seven Additional Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA – Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in seven (7) new dairies, for a total of seventeen (17) affected dairies in Central California. The seven new HPAI-confirmed dairies were in a group targeted for testing due to elevated risks from their recent connections with the initial affected premises. These recent findings are not unexpected and support CDFA's implementation of current surveillance strategies with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

This nationwide outbreak of HPAI H5N1 began in poultry in 2022 and was first detected in US dairy cattle in March 2024. All national detections in cattle can be found on the USDA website at the following link: HPAI Confirmed Cases in Livestock | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (usda.gov). Note that the website is updated at noon Eastern Standard Time.

September 17, 2024: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Confirmed in Two Additional Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA – Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in two (2) new dairies, for a total of ten (10) affected dairies in the Central California. The two new HPAI-confirmed dairies were in a group targeted for testing due to elevated risks from their recent connections with the initial affected premises. These recent findings are not unexpected and support CDFA’s implementation of current surveillance strategies with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. Early detection provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

This nationwide outbreak of HPAI H5N1 began in poultry in 2022 and was first detected in US dairy cattle in March 2024. All national detections in cattle can be found on the USDA website under: HPAI Confirmed Cases in Livestock | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (usda.gov). Note that the website is updated at noon Eastern Standard Time.

September 12, 2024: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Confirmed in Two Additional Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA – Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in two (2) new dairies, for a total of eight (8) affected dairies in the Central Valley of California. The two (2) dairies, in addition to the last three (dairies) confirmed for HPAI, were in a group targeted for testing due to elevated risks from their recent connections with the initial affected premises. These recent findings are not unexpected and support CDFA’s implementation of current surveillance strategies with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. This provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

This nationwide outbreak of HPAI H5N1 began in poultry in 2022 and was first detected in US dairy cattle in March 2024. All national detections in cattle can be found on the USDA website under: HPAI Confirmed Cases in Livestock | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (usda.gov). Note that the website is updated at noon Eastern Standard Time.

All affected dairies have been placed under quarantine and enhanced biosecurity measures are in place to prevent the spread of the virus. Sick cows are isolated and are being treated at the dairies. Most infected livestock and dairy cattle can fully recover from HPAI infection within a few weeks.

California's supply of milk and dairy foods is safe and has not been impacted by these events. Healthy cows have been cleared to continue shipping milk for pasteurization. Pasteurization of milk is fully effective at inactivating the virus so, there is no cause for concern for consumers from milk or dairy products. Pasteurized milk and dairy items, as well as properly handled meat and eggs, continue to be safe to consume.

No human cases of HPAI have been confirmed in California related to this incident. According to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), this influenza virus is not considered a significant public health threat and the risk to humans is considered to be low.

September 11, 2024: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Confirmed in Three Additional Dairies in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in three new dairies in the Central Valley of California. These dairies were in a group targeted for testing due to elevated risks from their recent connections with the initial affected premises. These findings are not unexpected and support CDFA’s implementation of current surveillance strategies with the goal of finding affected farms as early as possible. This provides the opportunity to work with farms to quickly implement enhanced biosecurity, cow care, and employee protection.

This nationwide outbreak of HPAI H5N1 began in poultry in 2022 and was first detected in US dairy cattle in March 2024. All national detections in cattle can be found on the USDA website under: HPAI Confirmed Cases in Livestock | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (usda.gov). Note that the website is updated at noon Eastern Standard Time.

California's supply of milk and dairy foods is safe and has not been impacted by these events. Healthy cows have been cleared to continue shipping milk for pasteurization. Pasteurization of milk is fully effective at inactivating the virus so, there is no cause for concern for consumers from milk or dairy products. Pasteurized milk and dairy items, as well as properly handled meat and eggs, continue to be safe to consume.

HIGHLY PATHOGENIC AVIAN INFLUENZA (HPAI) CONFIRMED IN THREE CALIFORNIA DAIRY HERDS

Three Central Valley farms quarantined; no human cases detected; no threat to the milk and food supply

SACRAMENTO, August 30, 2024 – Cows at three California dairies located in the Central Valley have tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). When the herds began showing clinical signs consistent with HPAI on August 23-25, 2024, samples from these three sites were submitted to our California Animal Health and Food Safety (CAHFS) laboratory network for preliminary determination, then submitted to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL), where the test results were confirmed today.

No human cases of HPAI have been confirmed in California related to this incident. The California Department of Health (CDPH) will provide official confirmation of any human cases associated with this incident.

"We have been preparing for this eventuality since earlier this year when HPAI detections were confirmed at dairy farms in other states," said CDFA Secretary Karen Ross. "Our extensive experience with HPAI in poultry has given us ample preparation and expertise to address this incident, with workers' health and public health as our top priorities."

According to CDPH and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), this influenza virus is not considered a significant public health threat and the risk to humans is considered to be low. The primary concern is for dairy workers who come into close contact with infected dairy cows. As we have learned from recent cases in other states, these workers may be at risk of contracting avian influenza. The CDC has confirmed four human cases of HPAI in dairy workers in other states since April 2024: one each in Texas and Colorado, and two in Michigan. CDFA is working with public health officials and dairy owners to inform and monitor workers at the affected dairies in California, and to assist the dairies with providing personal protective equipment.

California’s supply of milk and dairy foods is safe and has not been impacted by these events. As a precaution, and according to longstanding state and federal requirements, milk from sick cows is not permitted in the public milk supply. Also, pasteurization of milk is fully effective at inactivating the virus, so there is no cause for concern for consumers from milk or dairy products. Pasteurized milk and dairy items, as well as properly handled meat and eggs, continue to be safe to consume.

The detection of HPAI in cattle is by no means unexpected. The HPAI virus has been detected in North American wild birds in the U.S. since 2022, with occasional transmission into domestic poultry or wild mammals in almost all states, including California. In March, 2024, the first US detection in cattle was confirmed in Texas, most likely due to a single spillover event from wild birds. Since that time, the USDA has linked new detections in cattle to the interstate and regional movement of infected or contaminated livestock, people, and equipment.

The affected dairies have been placed under quarantine on the authority of CDFA’s State Veterinarian, and enhanced biosecurity measures are in place. Sick cows are isolated and are being treated at the dairies; healthy cows have been cleared to continue shipping milk for pasteurization. Animal movement is being tracked and evaluated, as are other potential introduction pathways. Additional testing will be prioritized according to epidemiologic risk. CDFA's preliminary investigation has confirmed that cows have been moved among these dairies recently. The investigation and response are ongoing.

Background on HPAI in California

CDFA has been engaged for years now with an extensive network of private veterinarians, farmers and ranchers, backyard bird enthusiasts, and local, state and federal partners to actively monitor for this disease in livestock and poultry throughout California. The department has taken steps to reduce the risk of entry of infected dairy cattle into the state, has extensive experience responding quickly and effectively to past detections of HPAI in poultry, and is fully prepared to respond to detections in cattle.

Most infected livestock and dairy cattle are able to fully recover from an HPAI infection within a few weeks. As we are seeing with this current incident, dairy herds can show clinical signs of infection such as reduced milk production; thicker, concentrated, colostrum‐like milk; a decrease in feed consumption; abnormal, tacky or loose feces; lethargy; dehydration; and fever.

No California domestic poultry flocks are affected by the current incident. Avian influenza viruses continue to circulate normally among migratory and wild birds. Monitoring of both wild and domestic bird populations is performed on a continuous basis by multiple public agencies, as well as farmers and ranchers and private bird owners.

At the federal level, USDA has implemented or expanded a number of programs to support affected dairy premises. These include the Dairy Herd Status Program and financial assistance for the heat treatment and disposal of milk, veterinary costs, personal protective equipment (PPE), milk loss offset via the Emergency Livestock Assistance Program (ELAP), biosecurity planning and implementation, as well as shipping cost offset for H5N1 testing. Information about all US detections in cattle can be found on the USDA website under: HPAI in Livestock | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (usda.gov).

For the most up-to-date information regarding highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in livestock in California, please visit CDFA - AHFSS - AHB - Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 Virus in Livestock.

Media Contact:
Steve Lyle, CDFA, 916-654-0462, officeofpublicaffairs@cdfa.ca.gov

Recommended Biosecurity Measures for Livestock Operations

CDFA strongly encourages dairy farms and processors to:

Review biosecurity protocols, including industry biosecurity resources such as those that may be found on the CDFA website for the Secure Food Supply Program, as well as the resources that can be found on the FARM/NMPF Everyday Biosecurity manual (Biosecurity - National Dairy FARM Program) and the Secure Milk Supply website (Secure Milk Supply Plan).
Continue to be vigilant to observe for clinical signs consistent with this outbreak such as acute loss of animal appetite and rumination; significant/acute drop in milk; changes in manure consistency.
Contact your herd veterinarian if you observe animal conditions outside of the ordinary. This has not currently been reported in California, but it is a reminder to enforce biosecurity on your dairy operation or when visiting other dairy operations.

California Interstate Movement Requirements and Restrictions for Dairy Cattle

All dairy breed cattle originating from Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) affected state(s): Must be accompanied by a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) and signed by an accredited veterinarian within seven (7) days before transport that includes the following statement: "All animals identified on this Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) have been inspected within seven (7) days before transport and do not originate from a premises with a confirmed detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) or that is currently under investigation as a suspect premises."

All lactating dairy cattle moving interstate require a CVI and matrix-A negative HPAI test from a NALHN laboratory within seven (7) days before movement, in addition to any state-specific entry requirements of destination state.
Dairy cattle moving interstate direct to slaughter are exempt from the test requirement but do require a CVI or a state-approved owner shipper statement and Premises ID (NPIN), in addition to any state-specific entry requirements of destination state.
Lactating dairy cattle from herds which have tested positive for Influenza A are not eligible for interstate movement for thirty (30) days from the most recent collection of any sample that tests positive from any individual animal in the herd. Re-testing may occur after this 30-day period.
Lactating dairy cattle with clinical signs consistent with HPAI in dairy cattle are ineligible for interstate movement (including to slaughter) as per 9 C.F.R. 71.3(b).