The Colorado Department of Agriculture has implemented mandatory statewide HPAI testing for commercial dairy operations to combat the ongoing outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) that has significantly impacted both the dairy and poultry industries in the state. Starting from July 22, 2024, all licensed dairy facilities will be required to submit weekly bulk-tank milk samples for testing to help identify and contain the virus. The new measures come as HPAI has spread to dairy cattle and has been linked to substantial losses in poultry.
In response to a severe outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), the Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) has implemented mandatory statewide surveillance for commercial dairy operations. This action, effective from July 22, 2024, aims to curb the virus’s spread and safeguard Colorado’s dairy and poultry industries.
Overview of the HPAI Situation
The outbreak of HPAI in Colorado, which began in April 2022, has significantly impacted the state’s poultry sector, resulting in the loss of over 6.3 million domestic birds. The virus has now spread to dairy cattle, with Colorado reporting the highest number of HPAI cases in dairy herds in the U.S., totaling 47 confirmed detections. The H5N1 strain of the virus, detected in Texas in March 2024, has spread to 13 states and affected more than 168 dairies.
New Testing Requirements
“We have been navigating this challenging, novel outbreak of HPAI in dairy operations for nearly three months and have not been able to curb the spread of disease at this point.”
Dr. Maggie Baldwin
In response, the new mandate requires weekly bulk-tank HPAI testing for all licensed commercial dairy cow operations in Colorado. This action aims to identify and isolate infected dairy herds promptly to prevent further spread of the virus.
Testing Protocol:
- Scope: The mandate applies to all CDPHE-licensed dairy cow facilities with lactating cows that produce milk for human consumption. This includes both large commercial dairies and smaller operations that meet the licensing criteria.
- Procedure: Weekly samples will be collected by CDPHE-certified collection samplers who are trained to handle the specific requirements of bulk-tank milk testing. These samplers will visit each facility to gather samples directly from the bulk tanks where milk is stored before processing.
- Analysis: Collected samples will be tested at the Colorado State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, which is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools to accurately detect the HPAI virus. The lab’s high-capacity testing facilities will ensure timely results and facilitate rapid response to any positive cases.
- Compliance: Dairies currently under quarantine or specific testing orders must adhere to additional regulations tailored to their situation. These additional measures may include more frequent testing or enhanced biosecurity protocols depending on the level of infection detected.
- Exemptions: Raw milk facilities, which do not process milk for commercial consumption but rather sell directly to consumers, are exempt from this mandatory testing. However, these facilities are still encouraged to follow best practices for animal health and biosecurity.
This proactive approach aims to strengthen the surveillance and control measures for HPAI, reflecting a commitment to both animal health and public safety. The collaboration between the CDA, CDPHE, and USDA underscores the importance of a unified effort in managing and mitigating the impact of this outbreak on Colorado’s dairy industry and the broader food supply chain.
Impact on Dairy and Poultry Industries
The HPAI outbreak has had a profound impact on both the dairy and poultry sectors. In July alone, two confirmed spillover events and one presumptive spillover from dairy to commercial poultry resulted in the death and depopulation of more than 3.2 million chickens. This spillover highlights the interconnected nature of animal health and the importance of rigorous testing and control measures.
Industry and Public Health Response
The CDA’s decision to implement mandatory testing reflects a broader effort to protect public health and stabilize the food system. Colorado Commissioner of Agriculture Kate Greenberg stated, “Mandatory surveillance of highly pathogenic avian influenza across all of Colorado’s Grade A commercial dairies is a critical next step to tamping down the virus and protecting the food system.”
The CDA and CDPHE are also working to monitor both livestock and human health impacts. The CDC has noted that while the risk to the general public remains low, anyone experiencing symptoms of avian flu who has had exposure to potentially infected animals should seek testing.
Looking Ahead
The ongoing surveillance and testing efforts are part of a broader strategy to manage the HPAI outbreak and mitigate its effects on the dairy and poultry industries. The cooperation of dairy producers and adherence to the new regulations will be crucial in controlling the spread of the virus and ensuring the safety of both livestock and public health.
