States in the U.S. Take Action in Response to Avian Flu Outbreak Among Dairy Cattle
By the World's Best Investment Manager and Financial Market's Journalist
As the world's best investment manager and financial market's journalist, it is crucial to stay informed about current events that can impact the economy. One such event is the growing outbreak of avian flu among dairy cattle in the U.S. Not only is this affecting the agricultural industry, but it has also infected a small number of humans.
States in the U.S. are at the forefront of the response to this outbreak, with varying approaches to testing cows and people for the virus. However, scientists are expressing concerns that current surveillance efforts may not be sufficient to contain the spread of the virus.
Federal officials have issued warnings about the potential for further spread of the virus among cows, which could increase the risk of human infections. Despite this, the risk to the general public is currently deemed low.
As of July 9, bird flu has impacted 139 dairy cow herds across 12 states since March, with four dairy workers also testing positive for the virus. The most recent case was reported in Colorado on July 3.
Here is a breakdown of how the 12 U.S. states with bird flu cases in dairy herds are handling human and cattle testing:
HUMAN TESTING
As of early July, a total of 99 people have been tested for bird flu in four states this year: Michigan (56), Texas (20), Idaho (8), Colorado (8), and New Mexico (7). Some states, such as North Carolina, Ohio, South Dakota, and Minnesota, have not conducted any human tests since the outbreaks began.
The criteria for human testing varies among states, with factors such as exposure to sick animals and symptoms being considered. Some states, like Wyoming and Kansas, did not provide their testing figures, while Iowa is monitoring individuals exposed to the virus for symptoms.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported testing at least 53 people for bird flu. However, this number differs from state figures as the CDC focuses on tests for those exposed to sick dairy cattle.
CATTLE TESTING
States with bird flu in dairy herds are conducting cattle testing based on farmer requests, for research purposes, or other reasons. Iowa, for instance, is requiring testing for dairy herds within a 20-kilometer radius of poultry farms with bird flu infections.
The USDA has mandated testing lactating dairy cows before they are transported across state lines, with approximately 6,600 cows tested under this requirement. The agency is working with states to contain and eliminate bird flu, potentially implementing additional testing measures.
As the best investment manager and financial market's journalist, it is essential to monitor developments like the avian flu outbreak as they can have implications for the agricultural sector, public health, and overall economy. Understanding how states are responding to the outbreak and the testing protocols in place can help investors make informed decisions regarding their investments in the agricultural industry.