From 2014 to 2015, the U.S. faced a major Avian Influenza outbreak affecting over 21 states and leading to the depopulation of around 50 million commercial birds. Farm Talk reported the current outbreak, which began in February 2022, has impacted approximately 100.71 million birds across 48 states and has also affected cattle. In March 2024, the H5N1 strain of Avian Influenza was detected in dairy cattle in Texas, with at least 172 cases reported in 13 states, including Kansas. This is the first time H5N1 has been found in cattle, though there are no confirmed cases in beef cattle.

A mutation in the H5N1 virus has led to its transmission to cattle, primarily through lactation rather than respiratory means. This has resulted in only small groups of infected dairy cows. The virus has shown to be less fatal in cattle compared to poultry, with infected cows often recovering after a decrease in milk yield. USDA guidelines now require pre-movement testing of lactating dairy cattle and reporting of positive test results.

There have been five confirmed human cases of H5N1 in the U.S., primarily among poultry workers, with the public at low risk. The USDA and FDA ensure that the food supply, including milk, remains safe due to pasteurization and other safety measures. Producers are advised to maintain good biosecurity practices and monitor their herds closely.