Experts Warn of Potential Bird Flu Pandemic in US Cattle
A new wave of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), also known as bird flu, is spreading across all 50 US states, prompting health experts to urge early pandemic preparedness. While the virus primarily affects wild and farm birds, its recent detection in mammals like cattle and goats has raised zoonotic concerns. The U.S. CDC and USDA are monitoring potential mutations that may enable human transmission. Dairy industry stakeholders are closely watching this development as it could disrupt supply chains, trade, and biosecurity protocols. The virus has been confirmed in dairy cattle in several US states, raising questions about interspecies transmission and implications for milk safety. Although pasteurization is known to eliminate pathogens like HPAI, regulatory bodies are reviewing testing protocols for raw milk.
Industry Insight:
Dairy exporters and animal health regulators in India should prepare for tighter import controls and enhanced surveillance, especially during peak trading months. Any potential trade or health scare in the US dairy sector could influence global sentiment and redirect demand to disease-free regions.
Source : Dairynews7x7 April 30th 2025 NDTV world