Enhanced Surveillance and Biosecurity Urged for EU Dairy Sector Amid US H5N1 Outbreak
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has assessed the risk of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) strain recently detected in dairy cattle across the United States, concluding that the probability of its arrival in Europe remains very low. However, the agency warns that if the H5N1 virus were to reach the European Union, the consequences could be substantial for both the dairy and poultry sectors.
To ensure early preparedness, EFSA recommends enhanced awareness among dairy farmers and veterinarians, along with strengthened surveillance systems to detect potential incursions swiftly.
Coordinated Animal Health Measures Advised
Responding to a request from the European Commission, EFSA’s analysis focuses on the specific genotype of the H5N1 virus currently circulating in US dairy herds. The agency advises several pre-emptive and responsive strategies to mitigate the risk of introduction and spread within the EU.
Key recommendations include:
- Imposing trade restrictions on livestock and dairy products from affected US regions.
- Implementing rigorous cleaning and disinfection protocols for milking equipment.
- Restricting cattle movements in impacted areas.
- Limiting the transfer of workers, vehicles, and equipment between farms.
- Enforcing strict on-farm biosecurity measures.
EFSA highlights the need for coordinated action across both poultry and dairy operations to reduce cross-species transmission and broader outbreak risks. These measures align with current best practices for controlling other HPAI strains already present in parts of Europe.
No Evidence of Foodborne Transmission via Pasteurised Dairy Products
The scientific opinion also explores the potential for consumer exposure through dairy consumption. While the virus can be present in raw milk, colostrum, and raw milk cream from infected animals, EFSA experts confirm that pasteurisation and other thermal treatments are highly effective in inactivating the virus.
Crucially, no human infections have been linked to the consumption of food products containing this H5N1 genotype, and no cases of foodborne transmission have been reported globally.
EFSA’s updated guidance follows its July 2025 scientific report that tracked the evolving HPAI outbreak in the US and assessed potential transmission pathways.