On September 15, 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that Nebraska has reported its first confirmed case of bird flu in a dairy cattle herd. This alarming development highlights the ongoing spread of the virus among livestock, which began with an outbreak last year. The presence of bird flu in dairy cattle is a significant concern for farmers and consumers alike.
Since March 2024, dairy cattle in 17 states have tested positive for the bird flu virus. Although the overall number of reported cases has decreased since last year, outbreaks continue to be documented across the nation. States such as California, Michigan, Nevada, Idaho, Arizona, and Texas have also reported instances of the virus this year, indicating that the threat of bird flu is still present in various regions.
Dairy cows infected with bird flu often exhibit a range of negative effects. These include a decrease in milk production, reduced feed consumption, and other health-related symptoms. The USDA has emphasized that while the virus can severely impact livestock, the risk it poses to the general public remains low. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the primary risk is to farm workers who are in direct contact with infected animals.
Since the outbreak began in 2024, there have been 70 confirmed cases of bird flu in humans, predominantly among those working on dairy farms. However, the CDC reassures consumers that pasteurized milk is safe to drink, as pasteurization effectively inactivates the bird flu virus. This public health measure helps to ensure that dairy products remain safe for consumption despite the ongoing animal health crisis.
The Nebraska dairy herd where the bird flu case was identified is located in the central part of the state and has been placed under quarantine by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture. This precautionary measure is essential to prevent the further spread of the virus. The strain detected in Nebraska has been linked to a similar strain found in California, which experienced a significant outbreak last year and continues to report new cases in 2025.
Nebraska is a key player in the U.S. cattle industry, particularly known for its beef production. While bird flu has now been confirmed in dairy cattle, it is important to note that there have been no reported cases of the virus in U.S. beef cattle. The agricultural community remains vigilant as they navigate the challenges posed by this viral outbreak and work to safeguard both animal health and public safety.
For ongoing updates and more information about bird flu in livestock, stay tuned to reliable sources and agricultural news outlets.
