By Jamie Martin
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a National Milk Testing Strategy (NMTS) to monitor and control the spread of H5N1 in dairy herds.
This initiative builds on actions taken since the virus was detected in March 2024, focusing on nationwide raw milk testing, biosecurity, and farmworker safety.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said, “This new milk testing strategy will provide a roadmap for states to protect the health of their dairy herds.”
Under the NMTS, milk samples from farms, bulk transporters, and processing facilities will undergo mandatory testing. Positive cases will trigger measures like contact tracing, enhanced biosecurity, and movement controls.
The USDA will collaborate with state officials to implement testing in five stages, from monitoring milk silos to demonstrating freedom from H5N1.
Initially, six states—California, Colorado, Michigan, Mississippi, Oregon, and Pennsylvania—will begin testing. Progress will be tracked through regular updates. The plan also emphasizes protecting farmworkers and public health while ensuring the safety of the commercial milk supply.
Farmers are encouraged to adopt biosecurity practices, participate in USDA programs, and use financial assistance for disease prevention.
The USDA highlights the critical role of effective collaboration with states to contain and eliminate H5N1 in dairy cattle nationwide.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National