USDA and USDA Officials Confirm H5N1 Detection in U.S. Swine and Most Recent Cases
No Threat to Nation’s Pork Supply
WASHINGTON, Oct. 30, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Oregon state veterinary officials announced that they are investigating positive cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) in a backyard farming operation in Oregon. This is the first detection of H5N1 in swine in the United States.
First Detection in Swine and Poultry
- Backyard Farming Operation: The farm located in Crook County, Oregon, is a non-commercial operation that houses a mix of poultry and livestock, including swine, goats, and sheep.
- Poultry H5N1 Detection: The Oregon Department of Agriculture first detected H5N1 in poultry on the farm on Oct. 25.
- Swine H5N1 Detection: On Oct. 29, the USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratories confirmed one of the farm’s five pigs was infected with H5N1.
Zoonotic and Public Health Concerns
The USDA and the Oregon Department of Health conducted tests on the pigs due to their close proximity to the infected poultry and the presence of H5N1 in other animals on the premises. The swine showed no signs of illness. Out of the five swine tested, two registered negative for H5N1, and the results for two are still pending.
Human and Livestock Protection Measures
- Quarantine and Surveillance: The farm has been placed under quarantine to prevent further virus spread. Other animals on the farm, including sheep and goats, remain under surveillance.
- USDA Monitoring and Vaccine Research: USDA has initiated genomic sequencing of the virus from infected poultry. The current sequencing results do not indicate any changes that would make the virus more transmissible to humans.
- Public Health Risk Remains Low: There is no current concern about the safety of the nation’s pork supply due to the finding.
Strong Biosecurity Practices and Wildlife Surveillance
The USDA continues to remind farmers of the critical importance of strong biosecurity measures to eradicate H5N1 and protect the health of farmworkers and livestock. Resources for biosecurity practices, financial assistance, and contact details for enrollment are available on the USDA’s official website.
Key Takeaways
- Vaccine Research: The USDA’s ongoing research includes two vaccine field safety trials currently approved to protect dairy cows from H5N1.
- Multidisciplinary Approach: Close collaboration between USDA, CDC, FDA, and local farmers is essential to protect the health of farmworkers, animals, and secure the nation’s food supply.
Call to Action
Stay informed about the latest developments and resources from the USDA. If you are a farmer, reach out to your local Area Veterinarian in Charge or State Animal Health Official for detailed guidance on implementing biosecurity measures and enrolling in financial assistance programs. Visit the USDA’s website for additional information and resources.
For resources and updates, visit USDA’s Avian Influenza Detections | Livestock.
