WASHINGTON D.C. - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has mandated nationwide testing of the milk supply for bird flu, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced Friday. The order comes as the virus rapidly spreads among dairy herds, raising concerns about the milk supply, public health, and economic impacts on farmers.
Since March, bird flu has infected over 500 dairy herds in California—America's leading milk-producing state—and more than 700 nationwide, according to the USDA. Nearly 60 people, primarily workers on infected poultry and dairy farms, have contracted the virus, though symptoms have been mild. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains that the risk to the general public remains low.
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The USDA's testing program is set to begin on Dec. 16 and will initially focus on bulk milk tanks and dairy processors in California, Colorado, Michigan, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, and Oregon. While bird flu has not yet been detected in dairy herds in Pennsylvania, Mississippi, and Oregon, the testing is designed to provide early detection of potential outbreaks.
Details of the Federal Order
The USDA’s order requires farms and processors to make raw milk available for sampling. Additionally, farm owners with positive test results must disclose information about animal movements and other relevant data.
"This testing gives us an opportunity to get a heads-up about new virus activity, whether it's in areas already affected or in new states," Vilsack said.
The USDA previously required testing of lactating dairy cattle moving across state lines, a measure implemented in April. Both federal orders will remain in effect indefinitely.
Impact on California Dairies and Milk Safety
California, home to roughly 1,100 dairies, has seen nearly half of its farms affected by bird flu. This week, the state issued a recall of raw milk and cream products produced by Raw Farm after the virus was detected in both retail and bulk milk products.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises against consuming raw milk due to the risk of pathogens, including bird flu. However, the agency assures consumers that pasteurized dairy products are safe, as the pasteurization process eliminates these pathogens.
National Surveillance Effort
The testing initiative stems from calls by industry and veterinary groups for stronger surveillance of the virus. The program will include weekly or monthly sampling, depending on the severity of outbreaks in a given area.
By prioritizing high-risk states, USDA Chief Veterinarian Rosemary Sifford noted, the agency can more effectively monitor the spread and develop containment strategies. The pace of testing may be adjusted based on initial findings.
Broader Implications
The USDA aims to protect the national milk supply while mitigating economic losses for dairy farmers. The agency has collaborated with industry groups, state officials, and veterinarians to develop the testing plan, which Vilsack described as critical for maintaining public confidence in the milk supply.
"This effort underscores the importance of surveillance in managing emerging threats to agriculture and public health," Vilsack said.
The expanded testing program reflects the federal government’s commitment to curbing the impact of bird flu, which has posed a growing challenge to U.S. agriculture in recent years.
