The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has initiated a National Milk Testing Strategy (NMTS) to address the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in dairy herds. This move follows the detection of H5N1 in dairy cattle earlier this year and involves a new Federal Order mandating the collection and testing of raw milk samples nationwide.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack stated, "Since the first HPAI detection in livestock, USDA has collaborated with our federal, state and industry partners to swiftly and diligently identify affected herds and respond accordingly. This new milk testing strategy will build on those steps to date and will provide a roadmap for states to protect the health of their dairy herds."

The NMTS aims to enhance understanding of the virus's spread through structured testing, supporting biosecurity measures, and protecting farmworkers from exposure. The Federal Order requires entities responsible for raw milk to share samples with USDA upon request. It also mandates herd owners with positive cases to provide epidemiological data for contact tracing.

HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra emphasized public health safety: "Our primary responsibility at HHS is to protect public health and the safety of the food supply, and we continue to work closely with USDA."

The strategy involves five stages, beginning with mandatory monitoring at dairy processing facilities. As states progress through these stages, their status will be updated by USDA. Initial testing includes six states: California, Colorado, Michigan, Mississippi, Oregon, and Pennsylvania.

USDA continues its efforts against H5N1 since confirming infections in March 2024. The department stresses effective biosecurity practices as crucial in preventing disease spread.