The ongoing spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 is creating significant challenges for the dairy industry in both California and Utah. With 436 dairies affected in California and at least 8 cases reported in Utah, the virus is spreading rapidly and causing significant herd losses. Dairy cows in these regions are experiencing higher infection and mortality rates than in other states, emphasizing the need for immediate and effective herd management. A rapid response with successful recovery measures is critical.

Severe Impact on Dairy Herds

The severity of HPAI in dairy cows in California has been alarming:

    • Infection rates as high as 50% to 60% within herds.
    • Mortality rates reaching 10% to 15%, compared to less than 2% in other states.

Common symptoms in infected dairy cows include:

    • Loss of appetite.
    • Reduced milk production.
    • Abnormal milk appearance, such as thickened or discolored milk.
    • Severe dehydration, a hallmark of HPAI in dairy cows.

The rapid spread and severe symptoms emphasize the urgent need for proactive herd management practices to prevent and mitigate losses.

Drenching: A Critical Recovery Tool

Drenching is emerging as a critical tool for managing affected dairy cows, helping restore hydration, stabilize metabolic functions, and reduce secondary health complications.

Key Benefits of Drenching:

    • Rehydration with electrolyte drench solutions restores energy and fluid balance.
    • Rumen Function Support minimizes long-term productivity losses.
    • Efficient Recovery reduces risks of pneumonia, abortion, and culling.

Effective Drenching Protocol:

    • Administer 5 to 6 gallons per cow per treatment of an electrolyte drench solution.
    • Treat cows 1 to 2 times daily, depending on the severity of symptoms.
    • Use safe drenching equipment to efficiently handle large numbers of cows, especially during peak outbreaks, when 30% to 40% of the herd may need daily treatment for a week or more.

Enhanced Recovery with Betaine and Yeast

Combining drenching with betaine and yeast improves recovery:

    • Betaine supports hydration, reduces stress, and protects cells during dehydration.
    • Yeast promotes rumen health, gut function, and immune recovery.

Drench-Mate Solutions for HPAI

Drench-Mate Electrolyte Drench Therapy with Betaine is an effective tool for general hydration and recovery, while the newly developed Drench-Mate AF 24 Electrolyte Drench Therapy is specifically designed for dairy cows battling HPAI. This advanced formula includes:

    • Electrolytes to restore hydration and balance.
    • Betaine for cellular hydration and stress reduction.
    • Yeast to promote gut health and enhance immune responses.

When paired with efficient drenching equipment, Drench-Mate AF 24 ensures faster recovery and improved herd health.

HPAI in Utah Dairies: A Growing Concern

The spread of HPAI into Utah dairy herds highlights the regional risks and need for vigilance. With at least 8 dairies affected, farmers in Utah are experiencing similar challenges to those in California. Rapid response measures, including the use of drench equipment, electrolyte drench therapy, and enhanced biosecurity, are crucial to slowing the spread and mitigating losses.

Protecting Dairy Herds Nationwide – Preparation is Key

Dairy farmers in California and Utah are demonstrating resilience and innovation in the face of HPAI. By utilizing advanced drenching equipment, incorporating electrolyte drench therapy with betaine and yeast, producers can safeguard herd health and maintain milk production during this challenging time.

Contact us today for more information on drenching practices and the latest solutions like Drench-Mate EDT, Drench-Mate AF 24, and quality Drench Equipment. Together, we can ensure the dairy industry thrives, even in the face of avian flu.