By Jamie Martin
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has announced the inclusion of seven new states in the second round of its National Milk Testing Strategy (NMTS).
This expansion reaffirms USDA's commitment to enhancing biosecurity and managing disease risks in the national dairy herd.
Launched on December 6, the NMTS aims to conduct nationwide surveillance by collecting and analyzing raw milk samples to detect and manage outbreaks, specifically the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in dairy cattle.
The new states—Indiana, Maryland, Montana, New York, Ohio, Vermont, and Washington—join the strategy to strengthen the USDA's efforts against HPAI, covering nearly 50% of U.S. dairy production.
Since its inception, APHIS has worked closely with federal and state partners to implement the strategy, emphasizing the importance of rapid response and enhanced biosecurity measures to mitigate transmission risks.
The strategy supports farmers by offering resources and guidance to execute effective biosecurity practices, crucial in preventing disease spread.
Farmers are encouraged to review and strengthen their biosecurity measures continuously. USDA offers support through programs that help cover costs associated with biosecurity planning and veterinary care. For more information, producers can visit the APHIS website on Enhance Biosecurity | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.
As the NMTS progresses, APHIS is dedicated to expanding its reach to all 48 contiguous states, ensuring a robust defense against potential outbreaks and maintaining the health and safety of the national dairy herd.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National