Bird Flu Detected in Dairy Cows: Could Louisiana Be at Risk?

SHREVEPORT, LA - A second stain of bird flu has been detected in dairy cows in Nevada. So far, we have not seen the problem in Louisiana. This strain had only been detected in wild birds and poultry, but it’s now popped up in dairy cows.

Louisiana Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain tells KEEL News the virus has not yet been detected in the state’s commercial poultry operations.

But he does say one man in southwest Louisiana died earlier this year from the bird flu. He was infected with the same strain of bird flu detected in cattle in Nevada. But this was not related to a commercial poultry operation.

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The bird flu problem is having an impact on egg production as millions of chickens have been killed to stop the spread of the flu. This has driven egg prices up to an average of more than $7 dollars a dozen across the nation. Strain emphasized that recovery will take time, requiring the raising of new chicks, restocking poultry houses, and vaccinating hens.

READ MORE: How Much Are Eggs in Louisiana?

Feds Are Concerned About Impact of Bird Flu on Dairy Cows

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says the persistent spread of the H5N1 virus has now reduced milk output in cattle. It's also driven up egg prices by wiping out millions of hens. Nearly 70 people have been infected since April when the virus started to spread across the country.

The USDA is working to contain the outbreak in Nevada quickly, so the strain does not spread to dairy cattle in other areas.