Dairy cows must be tested for bird flu before moving between states

The USDA has issued a federal order requiring all dairy cows moving between states to test negative for the avian influenza (bird flu) virus. The order, which comes into effect on April 29, covers all lactating dairy cattle. Though no beef cattle have been infected with the virus, the order does not exclude them from testing in the future.

The bird flu virus, Influenza A, is highly pathogenic and has been spreading across the United States since March. The order is intended to contain the virus' spread among cattle and prevent transmission to humans. The USDA emphasized that the risk of transmission between humans is low, and no cases of humans being infected have been confirmed in the United States.

Several vaccines exist to protect animals and humans from the virus. Manufacturers of the vaccines, such as Sanofi, GlaxoSmithKline, and CSL Seqirus, are monitoring the spread of the virus and stand ready to develop avian influenza vaccines if needed.

This news has led to speculation about the virus' origin and intent. Some commenters suggested the virus may have been imported from China and was a deliberate attempt to cause mass starvation, control, or genocide. Others pointed to the possibility of the virus spreading through food or via airborne transmission. The USDA's order reflects its concern about the virus' spread and the need to protect both animals and humans.