Since March 2024, highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) has been detected in dairy cattle herds in several states in the US. See USDA map.

There have been no cases detected to date in Canadian dairy cattle.

In settings where people and animals from different places gather closely, such as exhibitions, there is a higher likelihood of influenza viruses spreading.

Attendees at exhibitions should take precautions to prevent the transmission of influenza A viruses between animals and between animals and humans.

Animal Health Canada collaborated with a working group of several provincial chief veterinary officers, industry, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and the Public Health Agency of Canada to create guidance documents for organizers and exhibitors to help prevent highly pathogenic avian influenza spread to cattle.

Guidance for exhibition organizers to prevent highly pathogenic avian influenza A (H5N1) spread to cattle (PDF)

 Biosecurity recommendations for Canadian fairs and exhibits:

• Dairy cattle
• Beef cattle

For more information about the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in cattle, visit the following links:

• Canadian Food Inspection Agency: Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in livestock
• US Department of Agriculture (USDA)
• Animal Health Canada: US Detections of H5N1 in Dairy Cattle