Texas Confirms First Case of H5N1 Avian Flu in Dairy Cattle
· Telemundo McAllen (KTLM)
This is the first confirmed case in dairy cattle in Texas for 2026, detected after observing symptoms of illness in the cattle and a decrease in milk production. Samples were analyzed by the Texas A&M Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, and on May 30, the National Veterinary Services Laboratory confirmed the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI H5N1) in the dairy cattle in Texas. The dairy farm remains under quarantine. The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA APHIS) reported that the affected dairy operation has been placed under quarantine while investigations continue to determine the extent of the situation. Meanwhile, state and federal officials are working together to contain any potential spread of the virus. Is there a risk for consumers? The USDA, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and other federal agencies reiterated that there are no concerns regarding the safety of the commercial milk supply. They explained that pasteurization remains effective in inactivating the H5N1 virus. Additionally, milk from affected animals is removed from the commercial system or destroyed to prevent it from entering the supply chain for human consumption. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the H5N1 viruses currently circulating among birds and dairy cattle pose a low risk to the general population in the United States. However, authorities continue to promote strict biosecurity measures to reduce the possibility of transmission among animals.
AI summary · Source: Telemundo McAllen (KTLM) →
