USDA to require avian flu testing at slaughter plants

Highly pathogenic avian influenza continues to be a concern for agriculture, especially after the virus was transmitted from wild birds to dairy cattle in March 2024. As a response to the ongoing outbreak, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced on Aug. 13, that they would be increasing avian influenza testing in meat processing plants with a focus on culled dairy cattle. The additional testing will begin in September and continue for the rest of 2024.

USDA officials reiterated that beef and dairy products are safe to consume. The testing is a cautionary measure to gain more information about the avian influenza in slaughtered animals and protect from the virus spreading more in dairy cattle. So far, 13 states have reported avian flu cases in almost 200 dairy cows since March. Although some cows are asymptomatic, other cattle experience symptoms, including: reduced milk production; thickened or discolored milk; decreased appetite and feed consumption; tacky or loose feces; lethargy; dehydration; fever and clear nasal discharge.

Lacey Vilhauer can be reached at 620-227-1871 or [email protected].