Key Points:
- Nebraska dairy cattle hit by first bird flu case.
- Herd quarantined; milk production drops.
- Public risk is low; farmers face strain.
Quarantined Herd Marks Latest Expansion of Outbreak Affecting Nearly 1,800 Dairy Operations Nationwide. Nebraska confirmed its first case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu, in a herd of Nebraska dairy cattle, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced Monday. The detection underscores the continued spread of the virus among American livestock, bringing the number of affected states to 18 since the outbreak began in early 2024.
The infected herd, located in central Nebraska, was placed under quarantine after testing confirmed the H5N1 strain. Officials said the virus is closely related to one recently identified in California. Despite the concern, federal and state agencies emphasized that infected cows generally recover with supportive care, and overall mortality rates remain low.
Outbreak Scope and Symptoms in Cattle
The USDA has recorded 1,790 herds infected nationwide since March 2024. Cases have been reported in states including California, Michigan, Nevada, Idaho, Arizona, Texas, and now Nebraska. While the disease has long been associated with poultry, the discovery of widespread infections in Nebraska dairy cattle has added new challenges for agriculture and animal health authorities.
Cows affected by the virus often experience a sudden drop in milk production. Other symptoms can include fever, reduced appetite, dehydration, nasal discharge, and milk that takes on a thicker, colostrum-like consistency. The Nebraska Department of Agriculture said ongoing monitoring is underway to prevent further spread within the state.
State Veterinarian Dr. Roger Dudley urged dairy producers to remain alert. “We encourage Nebraska dairy producers to follow strict biosecurity protocols and to contact their veterinarian immediately if their animals show any symptoms,” he said.
Public Health and Food Supply Impact
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has assessed the risk to the general public as low. Human cases linked to the current outbreak remain rare, and officials stressed that pasteurized milk and properly cooked dairy products remain safe for consumption. Pasteurization kills the virus, reducing the risk of transmission through the food supply.
However, the outbreak has raised concerns about milk availability and supply chain stability. While most infected cattle recover, reduced milk production in affected herds can temporarily strain local supplies. Industry experts have also noted the financial stress on farmers who must manage quarantined herds and implement costly biosecurity measures.
Containment Efforts Moving Forward
The USDA and state agriculture departments continue to coordinate testing, quarantine enforcement, and producer education. Enhanced surveillance is being used to track new cases, while veterinarians and farmers are advised to maintain rigorous sanitation standards, restrict movement between farms, and closely observe animals for early signs of infection.
The spread of H5N1 into dairy herds highlights the adaptability of the virus and its potential to cross species boundaries. While the poultry industry has long battled avian influenza, the emergence in Nebraska dairy cattle and beyond has reshaped veterinary and epidemiological strategies across the country.
For Nebraska producers, the confirmed case serves as both a warning and a call to action. Authorities stress that vigilance, rapid reporting, and adherence to safety protocols are critical to slowing the spread and protecting both animal health and agricultural stability.
