HPAI Detection in Cattle

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Detected in Idaho Cattle

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA), has identified highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in three Cassia County dairy cattle operations.

These are the only confirmed cases of HPAI in dairy cattle operations in Idaho. It is suggested the virus is transmitted from cow-to-cow, in addition to reports indicating cattle acquire the virus from infected birds. The primary concern with an HPAI diagnosis in dairy cattle is on-dairy production losses, as the disease has been associated with decreased milk production.

Symptoms of HPAI in cattle include: 

• • Drop in milk production 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Changes in manure consistency 
  • Thickened or colostrum-like milk 
  • Low-grade fever 

ISDA Response 

For decades, Idaho has worked diligently to implement industry-driven programs that mitigate the transmission of diseases that cause on-farm economic losses. ISDA’s response to the detection of HPAI in cattle aligns with standard ISDA animal disease detection procedure. 

The ISDA implements a quarantine on HPAI positive dairy facilities, meaning no livestock are permitted to enter or exit the infected premises. These are open cases, ISDA is continuing to investigate via additional sampling.

The infected cattle are being quarantined from the rest of the herd on the facilities. Pasteurized milk from affected cows does not present a human health concern, and the cows on the dairy will continue to produce milk and all animals will be cared for normally.  

This is an evolving situation, and additional updates will be provided by ISDA as they become available. 

View cattle import requirements here.

What Livestock Producers Can Do

• • Enhance biosecurity measures (see below information below). 

• • Closely monitor your herd for the following symptoms: 

• • • Fever 
    • Lethargy 
    • Loss of appetite 
    • Constipation 
    • Thickened or colostrum-like milk 
    • Decreased milk production 

If your cattle appear to be infected: 

1. Contact your local veterinarian immediately.
2. After talking with your veterinarian, fill out the HPAI Livestock Screen.
3. Once the screen is submitted, an ISDA veterinarian will review the screen to determine if ISDA assistance is needed. Direct assistance from ISDA will be dependent on the severity and size of the herd as well as the availability of ISDA veterinarians.