In a proactive measure to curb the spread of avian influenza, Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding announced today that Pennsylvania will now enforce mandatory bulk milk testing from all state farms. This step comes as a precaution even though no instances of the virus have been reported in Pennsylvania cattle.
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has initiated this testing protocol, which will be carried out at no cost to farmers, to help identify and manage the potential spread of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) and other strains of Influenza A. The policy, effective immediately, aligns with practices in California, Colorado, Michigan, and Oklahoma, where mandatory milk testing has already been implemented.
Despite no current cases in local cattle, the move was prompted by a rise in HPAI cases in other states, with 217 new cases reported in the last month alone. Although HPAI is not typically lethal in cattle, it can significantly disrupt milk production and farm operations.
“Milk samples will be collected from bulk tanks on transport trucks or at processing plants, depending on the destination of the milk,” detailed Secretary Redding. “This measure, developed in consultation with dairy and poultry farmers, aims to ensure minimal disruption while maximizing safety and vigilance given the unique cohabitation of dairy cattle and poultry on many Pennsylvania farms.”
The measure adds to existing protocols established in April 2024 when Pennsylvania led with a Quarantine Order for dairy cattle entering the state. This early action has been mirrored by the USDA and other states in response to the virus’s spread.
Pennsylvania’s agriculture sector, including its leading poultry and dairy industries, is a substantial part of the state economy, supporting over 593,000 jobs and contributing $132.5 billion annually.
Chuck Turner, President of Turner Dairy Farms, affirmed their voluntary participation in preliminary testing, recognizing its importance in preventing wider spread and ensuring industry safety. The state veterinarian, Dr. Alex Hamberg, also emphasized the necessity of rigorous biosecurity measures to prevent the virus from infiltrating farms through movement and contaminated equipment.
In addition to enhanced testing and quarantine measures, the Shapiro Administration has invested in agriculture’s infrastructure and workforce to fortify against future outbreaks and mitigate current losses from HPAI. This includes establishing a special fund for improving biosecurity and aiding poultry farmers with losses not covered by federal aid, expanding veterinary services, and investing in technology for disease detection and prevention.
For more detailed information on avian influenza and protective measures, Pennsylvania residents and farmers are directed to the Department of Agriculture’s resources.
Source: Pa.gov