Wisconsin dairy farms have begun mandatory milk testing for the H5N1 avian flu virus as part of a USDA national surveillance plan, with samples collected during routine quality checks to ensure early detection and protect public health.
Dairy farms across Wisconsin have launched a mandatory testing program for the H5N1 avian flu virus as part of a national surveillance effort led by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This initiative aims to detect the virus early while minimizing milk wastage and safeguarding both farmers and consumers.
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) announced that milk samples will be collected during routine quality inspections, allowing for a seamless integration of testing without disrupting daily farm operations. This state-level approach enables quicker identification and response compared to other states, which typically conduct tests at processing plants.
The Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory plays a vital role in this program, with the capacity to process approximately 1,250 samples weekly. Since the program’s pilot phase began in April 2024, over 6,000 tests have been performed, with no cases of H5N1 detected among the state’s dairy cattle to date.
Officials note that maintaining a virus-free status for three consecutive months could allow for reduced testing frequency, easing the burden on farms while continuing to ensure safety.
Industry stakeholders, including Voice of Milk, support Wisconsin’s proactive and efficient testing strategy. They emphasize that pasteurized milk remains safe for consumption and underline the importance of ongoing surveillance to protect the dairy industry’s integrity and public health.
This testing program not only strengthens farm biosecurity but also bolsters consumer confidence in the safety and quality of Wisconsin’s milk supply, a critical aspect for one of the nation’s largest dairy-producing states.
