USDA's New Order: A National Milk Testing Strategy for Bird Flu

In an effort to combat the ongoing bird flu outbreak among dairy cattle, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a nationwide testing strategy for raw milk. This move, part of the National Milk Testing Strategy (NMTS), aims to enhance surveillance, protect the food supply, and safeguard public health. With over 700 dairy herds across 15 states infected, the USDA's initiative is a proactive approach to controlling the spread of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus.

The NMTS will prioritize testing based on the virus's prevalence in each state. It begins with nationwide testing of milk silos at dairy processing facilities (Stage 1) to identify where disease is present. This will be followed by bulk tank sampling to identify infected herds (Stage 2) and rapid response to infected cattle using existing incentive programs, movement controls, and contact tracing (Stage 3). As states show their herds are no longer infected, regular bulk tank sampling continues to prevent disease reappearance. Periodic sampling will eventually be implemented to demonstrate long-term absence of the virus.

The USDA's order requires the sharing of raw milk samples upon request from any entity responsible for a dairy farm, bulk milk transporter, bulk milk transfer station, or dairy processing facility. Herd owners with positive cattle must provide epidemiological information to enable contact tracing and disease surveillance. Private laboratories and state veterinarians are mandated to report positive results to the USDA, ensuring transparency and accountability in the testing process.

The NMTS will be implemented in stages, with the first round of testing beginning the week of December 16, 2024. Six states – California, Colorado, Michigan, Mississippi, Oregon, and Pennsylvania – will be included in the initial testing. The distribution of resources across states will be based on virus prevalence, with states moving through the stages as their herds are found to no longer be infected.

The nationwide testing strategy will significantly impact regional economies, particularly in states with high bird flu prevalence. California, with nearly 500 infected herds, will face immediate scrutiny. Testing will help trace the virus's path, enabling rapid response and containment. However, the strategy may temporarily disrupt dairy industries, as infected herds could face movement restrictions and temporary quarantine. Long-term, the strategy should increase confidence in the safety of dairy products and boost consumer trust.

In conclusion, the USDA's National Milk Testing Strategy is a critical step in combating the ongoing bird flu outbreak among dairy cattle. By prioritizing testing based on virus prevalence and ensuring comprehensive coverage, the USDA is taking a proactive approach to protecting the food supply and safeguarding public health. As the strategy unfolds, it will be essential for stakeholders to collaborate with the USDA and state officials to mitigate the economic impacts and ensure the stability of the dairy supply chain.