Cattle quarantine: Nebraska reports first case of bird flu in dairy cows

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — For the first time, the bird flu has been detected in Nebraska dairy cows.

On Monday, the Nebraska Department of Agriculture announced a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in a herd in central Nebraska.

The herd has been quarantined, according to the department.

Testing found that the strain of the virus is very similar to a strain from California, officials said.

Common signs of infection in cows include a clear nasal discharge, tacky or loose feces, dehydration, fever, decreased appetite and lower milk production.

Dr. Roger Dudley, the state veterinarian, said dairy producers who notice those symptoms should follow strict biosecurity protocols and contact their vet.

The agriculture department said bird flu carries a low risk of death for cattle.

Humans can get the virus from contact with animals, but officials said the threat to the general public is low.