Idaho is currently facing one of the most severe avian flu outbreaks in the U.S., significantly affecting dairy producers. The situation, from both an animal health and public health perspective, is largely self-monitored by the dairy producers themselves. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that the current threat to human health is low, experts caution that this could change with each new mutation of the virus.
Potential Human Health Risks
Dr. David Pate, retired president and CEO of St. Luke’s Health System, emphasizes the importance of vigilance. “We’re watching all the ingredients and that sequence,” he explains. Dr. Pate, along with Dr. Ted Epperly, authored “Preparing for the Next Global Outbreak” in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. He argues that more proactive measures are needed to prepare for a potential human health threat.
Monitoring and Precautionary Measures
Idaho officials and dairy producers are implementing several measures to monitor animal health, quarantine infected animals, provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to workers, and offer testing for farm workers exposed to the virus. Dr. Christine Hahn, state epidemiologist, notes that dairy workers are already accustomed to handling infectious conditions. “Cows have other germs they can spread, so they already have protocols in place,” she says.
Current Impact of the Outbreak
According to USDA data, 27 cattle herds in Idaho had been affected by the virus as of July 3. Nationwide, nearly 140 herds have been infected since the highly pathogenic avian influenza strain H5N1 was first detected in U.S. dairy cattle in March.
Idaho, ranking third in the U.S. for milk production, has over 400 dairy operations. Despite the outbreak, no human cases have been detected in Idaho. There have been four confirmed human cases in Texas, Michigan, and Colorado, mostly presenting as mild eye symptoms or respiratory illnesses.
Virus Transmission and Safety of Milk
Studies by the USDA and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have shown that pasteurization effectively deactivates the virus, making commercially sold milk safe as long as it’s pasteurized. The outbreak began in Texas and spread to an Idaho dairy that had received cattle from Texas.
As of July 12, 18 facilities in nine Idaho counties, including Canyon County, are under quarantine. Rick Naerebout, CEO of the Idaho Dairymen’s Association, suggests that the state might have reached its peak, but the situation could worsen when migratory birds return in winter.
Potential Pandemic Concerns
Dr. Pate explains that the H5N1 virus is currently not very effective at infecting humans and does not spread from human to human. However, the virus has a high mortality rate among those infected. Since 2003, about 890 people have been infected worldwide, with a fatality rate of over 50%. For comparison, COVID-19 had a 1.7% case fatality rate.
Need for Enhanced Monitoring and Testing
Dr. Pate stresses the need for more comprehensive monitoring and testing. He advocates for antibody testing for farm workers, similar to efforts in Michigan, and better data transparency. He also calls for the development of more readily available tests for H5N1 and the allocation of resources toward vaccines.
Dairy Producers’ Response
Idaho dairy producers closely monitor their herds to ensure peak performance and avoid disruptions. Infected cows are quarantined, and their milk is pasteurized before disposal to prevent contamination. The state Department of Agriculture recommends contacting a veterinarian immediately if a case is suspected. Dr. Scott Leibsle, the state veterinarian, notes that the virus shows up most prominently in milk, which is tested regularly.
Government Response and Challenges
The Idaho Department of Agriculture and the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare are coordinating efforts to protect animal and human health. On a federal level, the USDA and CDC are providing resources and monitoring the situation. However, no Idaho producers have participated in the USDA’s financial assistance program due to slow clarifications on eligibility.
Migrant Workforce Concerns
About 90% of Idaho’s dairy workforce is foreign-born, many of whom are undocumented. This presents challenges in monitoring and testing, as workers may fear revealing their legal status. Naerebout acknowledges this issue but notes that dairy managers are vigilant in ensuring sick workers do not spread illnesses.
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Looking Ahead
While the avian flu outbreak in Idaho is currently under control, experts emphasize the need for continued vigilance and preparation. Dr. Pate urges that this situation be used as an opportunity to learn and develop preparedness measures for potential future pandemics.
