By Farms.com
In response to the H5N1 outbreak in dairy cattle, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has unveiled the Voluntary H5N1 Dairy Herd Status Pilot Program.
Supported by an $824 million emergency fund from the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC), this program is designed to offer dairy producers innovative ways to monitor herd health and expedite cattle movement.
Through the pilot program, dairy producers can conduct weekly bulk milk tests instead of individual animal tests, streamlining the process and enabling quicker adjustments to herd management.
Producers who consistently test negative for H5N1 over three weeks can bypass additional pre-movement testing requirements, facilitating smoother and more efficient operations.
Set to commence in the first week of June 2024, the program encourages producers from selected states to collaborate with their APHIS Area Veterinarian in Charge or State Veterinarian to enroll.
This initiative is part of USDA's broader strategy to enhance surveillance, control the spread of disease, and maintain robust national livestock health standards.
The program also aims to gather valuable data to broaden USDA's understanding of H5N1, contributing to improved disease response strategies.
This proactive approach demonstrates the USDA's commitment to supporting the dairy industry and safeguarding public and animal health through enhanced regulatory measures and cooperation with state and federal health agencies.