The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced the enrollment of 15 more states into the National Milk Testing Strategy (NMTS). This brings the total to 28 states, representing nearly 65% of U.S. milk production.

The 15 states added include:

  • Alabama
  • Arizona
  • Delaware
  • Iowa
  • Georgia
  • Kansas
  • Minnesota
  • New Jersey
  • New Mexico
  • Nevada
  • Oklahoma
  • Rhode Island
  • Tennessee
  • Utah
  • Virginia

The NMTS aims to monitor and manage the spread of the bird flu virus among dairy herds. California and Texas are currently the only states with active bird flu detection systems in place. Testing across participating states has reaffirmed the absence of the virus in other areas. The program employs a five-stage system to track and address bird flu detections. Testing results and updates are shared in real time via interactive maps and databases.

In parallel, the USDA is expediting the development of vaccines for bird flu, particularly for dairy cattle. Efforts include consolidating the vaccine review process, with seven vaccine candidates approved for field trials.

Read more on the Milk Testing Strategy for bird flu here.