USDA Confirms Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Two Washington Dairy Herds

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has confirmed the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5 clade 2.3.4.4b in two dairy cattle herds in Washington state. While the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates a low risk to the general public, individuals with job-related or recreational exposures to infected animals are advised to take precautions. The FDA remains confident in the safety of the commercial, pasteurized milk supply.