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Abstract Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus has been associated with severe mastitis in dairy cows , leading to decreased milk production . Here we investigated the impact of H5N1 virus infection in health and production parameters in an affected dairy herd in Ohio . Clinical disease , which lasted for about three weeks , was recorded in 20.0% (777/3876) of the adult cows. Milk losses of ~900 kg per cow were recorded in affected cows during a 60 day-post-outbreak period . Seroprevalence was 89.4% (570/637) in the herd, with 76.1% (485/637) of seropositive animals being subclinically infected . Clinically affected cows presented an increased risk of death (6 times) and of premature herd removal (3.6 times) when compared to non-clinical cows. Economic losses due to decreased milk production, mortality, and early herd removal were estimated at $950 per clinically affected cow for a total cost of ~$737,500 for the herd during the observation period. Our results demonstrate...

Abstract Free-ranging white-tailed deer (WTD) are highly susceptible to the SARS-CoV-2 virus . Through an opportunistic sampling of WTD in northeast Ohio, USA , during January–March 2023 , we identified 6 SARS-CoV-2 lineages from 36 sequences using the pangolin lineages tool, including the B.1.1.7 lineage (Alpha variant) and BQ.1.1, BQ.1.1.63, BQ.1.1.67, BQ.1.23, and XBB.1.5.35 lineages ( Omicron variant ). The Alpha variant, introduced by a single human-to-deer transmission event , was detected in 5 WTD in January 2023, more than 1 year after the most recent detection of the Alpha variant in humans in Ohio (August 2021). A genetically similar B.1.1.7 lineage virus from WTD in a nearby county in Pennsylvania was positioned with our Ohio deer transmission cluster, suggesting deer-to-deer transmission . The persistence of the Alpha variant in WTD in Ohio warrants continued surveillance to monitor if WTD can become a reservoir for displaced SARS-CoV-2 variants. Source: US Centers for Dise...

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) — The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) today is reporting the state’s first flu-associated pediatric death of the 2024-25 flu season, a teenager under the age of 18 from Allen County. “Sadly, this tragic death reminds us that influenza , though common, is a serious health threat,” said ODH Director Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, MBA.  “We urge parents to protect their kids. It’s not too late for parents and kids to get a flu vaccine . It may very well prevent you or your loved ones from getting seriously ill. And, especially during flu season, it’s important to maintain good hand hygiene and to stay home if you are sick.” Flu activity usually peaks between December and February . In Ohio, flu activity has been increasing since early December and has increased more rapidly since the beginning of the year. Current activity is very high . Since the start of the season , more than 9,000 influenza-associated hospitalizations have been reported in Ohio, which is well above the fiv...

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)— The Ohio Department of Health is reporting the state’s first probable human case of influenza A(H5), also known as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), or bird flu .  An adult male Mercer County farm worker who was in contact with deceased commercial poultry was infected with the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention considers the current risk of bird flu for the general public to be low. However, people with close and prolonged, unprotected contact with infected birds are at greater risk. Guidance for the General Public The risk of acquiring bird flu to the general U.S. population is low . The best way to prevent bird flu is to avoid direct contact with wild birds or sick or dead poultry or other animals. Contact your local health department or local veterinarian for further guidance before you approach sick or dead poultry or wild birds. *** REVISED ***  Guidance for Those Who Work With Poultry Commercial poultry owners should practice ...