Officials with the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) were notified on June 1, 2026, that a sample from a dairy in Cache County tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
New mandatory weekly surveillance
In response to this detection, UDAF is enacting mandatory weekly surveillance for HPAI in dairies located within Cache County. Federal funding is available to cover testing costs, ensuring there will be no additional expense to producers.
Quarantine and movement restrictions
In the event of a positive test result, the affected dairy will be placed under quarantine. During this time, no movement of lactating cattle will be permitted on or off the facility, except for cows traveling directly to slaughter.
Collaborative management and response plans
UDAF is collaborating with local, state, and federal partners, including the Utah Department of Health and Human Services and dairy producers, to manage surveillance, biosecurity, and avian influenza response plans. Meetings were scheduled for industry leaders on June 2nd and for dairy producers on June 3rd.
History of HPAI spread
HPAI H5N1 was first detected in Texas dairy cattle in March 2024 and has since spread to 19 other states, including Colorado, Idaho, Wyoming, and Utah. Genetic sequencing previously confirmed that the virus found in a Cache County commercial poultry facility in 2024 was the same virus impacting local dairy cattle that year.
Public health and food safety
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, recent HPAI detections do not present an immediate public health concern. There have been no confirmed cases of HPAI in humans in Utah, and no major impacts to the food supply chain are currently anticipated.
Reporting illness and financial assistance
Producers are advised to report any signs of illness in dairy cattle or poultry immediately to the State Veterinarian’s Office. Financial resources through USDA APHIS are available to help producers manage costs related to milk losses, milk disposal, veterinary expenses, personal protective equipment, and HPAI testing.
Producers outside of Cache County interested in participating in voluntary surveillance may contact the State Veterinarian’s Office via email.
