Enhance Biosecurity

Last Modified: January 14, 2026

closeup image of dairy cow herd in grassy field on a sunny day

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), or bird flu, has been detected in dairy cattle, impacting cow health and milk production. Consistent biosecurity is your best defense. Simple changes in daily routines can go a long way in keeping your herd healthy.

Get Financial Support From USDA To Enhance Biosecurity

Biosecurity Tips

Keep Your Herds Healthy
- Make sure your cows have access to clean water, nutritious food, and clean bedding.
Stop Germs From Spreading
- Only allow people on the farm who need to be there. Keep a record of all guests and provide disposable shoe covers to be worn while on the farm.
- Use only one entrance and exit for the farm.
- Spray disinfectant on all vehicles and tires before entering and exiting the farm.
- Clean and disinfect equipment every day and don’t borrow tools or equipment.
- Use a separate pair of boots and coveralls on the farm around your herd to avoid spreading germs.
Separate Different Species
- Keep other animals and pets away from herds, including feed, litter, or equipment.
- Keep wild animals, birds, and pests like rats and mice away from livestock areas.
Be Safe When Traveling
- Limit close contact with other exhibitors’ animals.
- Follow event biosecurity plans.
- Clean and disinfect equipment often and don’t share tools, feed, water or supplies.
- Isolate new, borrowed, or returning animals for at least 30 days.
- Observe animals closely for any signs of illness.
Create a Plan
- Make biosecurity practices an everyday, every time activity for staff and everyone who visits or travels between farms.
- Complete regular walkthroughs and update your plan as needed.
Look for Signs of Illness and Report
- Know the signs of illness!
- Isolate sick animals and report them to your veterinarian and/or State and Federal animal health officials.

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Biosecurity Tips

Keep Your Herds Healthy

Stop Germs From Spreading

Separate Different Species

Be Safe When Traveling

Create a Plan

Look for Signs of Illness and Report

Resources for Dairy Producers

Resources for Other Producers