So far, the virus has not been lethal to cattle and causes very different symptoms than it does in poultry.

Why dairy and not beef?

Several factors favour bovine influenza A detection on dairy versus beef farms

Recent detection in the United States of a highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza  virus in dairy cattle is the first instance of this strain in bovines.  The World Organization for Animal […] Read more

(Geralyn Wichers photo)

Bovine flu a reminder of risk management in markets 

While recent price drops have limited options, cow-calf producers can still lock in a profit, says market analyst 

The fundamentals still look strong for cattle prices, despite recent hiccups in the futures market, says a market analyst, but for those buying stockers, a little risk management can go a long way.




FILE PHOTO: Test tubes labelled “Bird Flu” and eggs are seen in this picture illustration, January 14, 2023. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo

U.S. cattle vets rename bovine bird-flu

CDC asks state health authorities to have plans in place to test, treat farm workers; says risk to humans still low

An organization representing American cattle veterinarians has opted to refer to bird flu in cattle as bovine influenza A virus, or BIAV, in hopes of distancing it from its avian counterpart.



(MartineDoucet/E+/Getty Images)

Explainer: Avian flu in dairy cows warrants close attention

Farmers should identify unusual signs of disease in cattle and have them examined by a veterinarian

An emerging disease syndrome was originally identified in dairy cows in Texas. These cows were identified by animal care workers and veterinarians as having the main clinical signs of reduced milk production and decreased feed intake. Approximately 10 per cent of the cows seem to show clinical signs on affected farms. No deaths occurred and cows seemed to recover with supportive care within two to three weeks. However, loss of milk production was significant. These same farms reported deceased wild birds on their properties.