BRIGHAM CITY — The Box Elder County Commission declared a local state of emergency Thursday following an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza that has devastated local milk production and impacted nearly half of the county’s dairy farms.
The declaration, effective immediately for 30 days, allows the county to coordinate emergency resources and seek state and federal financial aid. Local officials stated that the magnitude and cost of responding to the outbreak far exceed the county’s available resources.
A sample from a local dairy farm first tested positive for the virus, commonly known as bird flu, on or around June 25. Since then, the pathogen has spread to at least 50% of the county’s dairy cows and almost 50% of its dairy farms, forcing a quarantine of affected herds that could last up to 90 days to completely clear the virus.
“Box Elder County’s agricultural producers are among the hardest-working people in our county,” Box Elder County Commission Chair Tyler Vincent said. “They are our neighbors, our friends, and the families who have built and sustained an industry that is vital to our economy, our heritage, and our communities.”
According to county officials, the virus likely entered the farms through feed contaminated with bird feces. However, the virus now primarily spreads through normal farm operations, including the movement of cattle, shared vehicles and equipment, and milk handling. Officials noted there is currently no evidence that wild birds are the main source of cattle infections.
While most herds see fewer than 10% to 20% of cows get sick, and death rates remain under 2%, infected cows experience severe milk production losses. Most animals recover within seven to 10 days, but approximately 10% fail to return to their previous production levels.
The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food is conducting weekly testing of all dairy herds in the county to track the virus. Impacted producers can access federal funds from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to offset testing and biosecurity costs, as well as state low-interest loans through the Agriculture Resource Development Loan program.
Officials emphasized that the emergency declaration is a preparedness measure and does not mean there is an increased risk to public health. The threat to the general public remains low, and pasteurized dairy products remain completely safe to consume. However, residents are warned not to consume raw, unpasteurized milk.
Dairy owners are advised to monitor livestock for symptoms, including decreased milk production, reduced appetite, and thickened milk. Affected owners can submit milk samples for testing through the Utah Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory in Logan.