Illinois dairy farmers take steps to protect cows from H5N1

RED BUD, Ill. (KBSI) – The CDC issues urgent warnings about the bird flu. We learn from the Illinois Department of Agriculture is suspending the sale of poultry due to growing concerns. 

Just one of many precautions taking place across the country to stop the spread.

Bruce Schneider, a dairy farmer in Red Bud, is closely monitoring his cows for signs of illness as concerns grow over the spread of H5N1, a deadly bird flu virus. Schneider checks his cows daily, keeping an eye on their health and milk production.

“A cow will tell you if something is wrong,” Schneider said. “As long as they’re alert, eating, drinking, and producing milk, they’ll be healthy. If they’re affected by bird flu, they’ll look sickly, mope around, and their milk production can drop significantly.”

Schneider is aware of recent reports of H5N1 infections in dairy herds in Nevada, where six herds tested positive for a newer variant of the virus. The virus has been linked to severe infections in humans, prompting increased caution among farmers.

To protect his herd, Schneider has implemented several precautions, including restricting farm visitors and using an LP gas cannon to scare away birds.

“We’re trying to be more cautious about who visits the farm and not allowing them to walk through the cattle area,” he said. “The gas cannon helps keep the birds away.”

Though Schneider has not yet had any cows exposed to the virus, he has a plan in place should an infection occur. He would isolate any affected cow and treat it with prescribed medication from a veterinarian.

Schneider reassured consumers that pasteurized milk remains safe, even if a cow contracts bird flu. “Once the milk is pasteurized, it’s perfectly safe for human consumption. Pasteurization kills the bird flu virus 100%,” said Schneider.