Since the H5N1 virus was first detected in Canada in December 2021 and has since spread to poultry flocks throughout America, people have commonly referred to this virus as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
However, Kay Russo, DVM, MAHM, DACPV, believes now that the virus has appeared in dairy cattle in the United States, people need to be more intentional with what they call it. Russo explained why on April 5, while speaking during the webinar, “Managing Novel Disease Introduction and Biosecuity Practices to Protect Herd Health.”
“In my opinion, the disease in cattle at this point should not be referred to as highly pathogenic avian influenza,” said Russo. “I believe it can no longer be considered highly pathogenic avian influenza, given its low mortality, and the fact that it was isolated from a bovine source. It should simply be referred to as either H5N1, or perhaps low pathogenic bovine influenza, at this point in time.” Read more