Bird Flu in Wisconsin: What You Need to Know

Announcement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture

A new case of bird flu in Wisconsin has been confirmed, but it is not linked to the earlier outbreaks. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) made this announcement on a Friday. This specific strain, called H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b genotype D1.1, was identified through detailed genetic testing.

Key Details

• Origin: Most bird flu cases in U.S. dairy herds have come from a single event in Texas last year, involving a different strain, B3.13.
• Separate Case: This new case in Wisconsin is unrelated and was found through routine milk testing.
• No Spread: No other herds have been affected yet.

Public Safety Assurance

• No Risk to People: The virus does not pose a risk to public health.
• Pasteurization: Kills the virus, ensuring the safety of milk.
• Affected Milk: Either thrown away or destroyed.
• CDC Statement: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) still consider the risk to the public to be very low.

Preventive Measures

• Farmers' Role: Reminded to keep animals safe and report any sick animals or unusual wildlife deaths.
• Government Action: A group of senators has asked the government to finalize a plan for a bird flu vaccine for livestock.

Importance of Monitoring and Control

This situation highlights the need for:

• Disease monitoring
• Control measures
• Better preparation
• Quick action to protect both animals and people.