H5N1 virus detections in dairy cattle have not been reported in Canada as April 3, 2024.
• Current testing performed on the cattle samples with H5N1 in the US does not indicate that it is more transmissible to humans.
• Canadian diagnostic labs are prepared and capable of detecting H5N1 in dairy cattle as needed.
• The Canadian dairy industry benefits from having a national quality assurance program with an existing strong biosecurity component to reduce the risk of introduction to herds.
• From the US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) “FDA’s longstanding position is that unpasteurized, raw milk can harbor dangerous microorganisms that can pose serious health risks to consumers, and FDA is reminding consumers of the risks associated with raw milk consumption in light of the HPAI detections.”
• It is prohibited to ship abnormal milk in Canada