Mike Pearson takes a look at the cost of the highly pathogenic avian flu on farms and what is being done to contain the virus in the United States.

HPAI has been a reoccurring theme since 2020.

The virus has cost the country billions in losses and resulted in the culling of millions of birds from flocks.

As a result, the USDA has instituted a National Milk Testing Program-- designed to track and contain the virus.

The testing is being rolled out in phases across California, Idaho and Michigan.

Samples are taken from milk tanks and process facilities tested anonymously. Viral samples have already been found and it is allowing the USDA to catch outbreaks before they grow.

It is also helping farmers to identify virus clusters and take the appropriate steps to stop it.

Early detection is key and the first phase runs through January.

Pasteurization kills the virus and there is no risk for consumers from milk supply.

However, the virus remains active with new cases found in Michigan, Texas and the Midwest just this month.

HPAI doesn't kill cattle but it disrupts herd health, cuts milk production and forces costly quarantines.

Results from the first phase of the testing will be released in February.

Farm Progress America is a daily look at key issues in agriculture. It is produced and presented by Mike Pearson, farm broadcaster and host of This Week in Agribusiness.

Related:Farm Progress America, Jan. 24, 2025