Avian flu quarantine lifted for NC dairy herd
The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has lifted the quarantine of the only herd within North Carolina that was under isolation for a dangerous avian flu virus.
In April, the highly pathogenic avian influenza, or bird flu, was detected in the dairy herd.
The bird flu had also been found in dairy cows from Texas, Kansas, Michigan, New Mexico, South Dakota, Idaho, North Carolina, and Ohio.
This herd was the only HPAI-positive herd within NC and was directly linked to a dairy herd in Texas that was clinically affected and epidemiologically linked to the virus.
Officials lifted the isolation only after serial testing showed the herd was negative for the virus.
“North Carolina took a take-charge approach to the threat of HPAI in dairy cattle,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “Once the disease in Texas was associated with spread to other states, our state veterinarian issued a stop-movement order to keep dairy cattle from affected herds from coming into the state."
Even though the N.C. herd never exhibited clinical signs of HPAI, officials tested them out of an abundance of caution.
"Since the positive test, we have worked with industry and our state and federal partners to inform consumers and protect the industry," said Troxler.
Last week, North Carolina poultry achieved HPAI-free status from the World Organization for Animal Health. This designation means that the state can resume exports and international trade for poultry products for many countries.
“Although our state is not currently dealing with any HPAI cases, it is important that farmers continue to follow strict biosecurity and report animals with signs or symptoms of the virus to the Veterinary Division,” Troxler said. “Our state’s poultry and livestock industry combined accounts for 75 percent of North Carolina’s total agricultural production. It is important that we continue to monitor our farms, livestock, and poultry.”
It is important to note the FDA has no concern about the safety or availability of pasteurized milk products nationwide and USDA is confident that the meat supply is safe.
