On Nov. 10, 2026, Preliminary detection of HPAI was identified through Oregon’s routine statewide milk surveillance program, with preliminary results reported by the Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (OVDL) at Oregon State University (OSU) on November 6, 2026. The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) immediately initiated an on-farm investigation and submitted additional samples to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL) for confirmation.

Oregon’s routine statewide milk surveillance program identified the detection, demonstrating the effectiveness of the state’s ongoing monitoring efforts. No additional affected dairies have been identified at this time.

Pasteurized milk and dairy products remain safe to consume, and there is no concern about the safety of the commercial milk supply. Pasteurization effectively inactivates the HPAI virus, and milk from sick animals is prohibited from entering the commercial milk supply. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continues to advise against consuming raw (unpasteurized) milk because it does not undergo the heating process that kills viruses and bacteria.

ODA has placed the affected dairy under quarantine, and enhanced biosecurity measures are in place. The quarantine restricts animal movement and implements additional disease control measures while response activities are conducted. Response activities are focused on the impacted dairy and associated epidemiologic investigation. In most cases, infected dairy cows are expected to recover within a few weeks.

ODA is coordinating closely with USDA, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Morrow County Public Health officials, OVDL, and Oregon’s dairy industry partners as the investigation continues. Oregon’s statewide dairy surveillance program, launched in December 2024, was established to detect HPAI early and support rapid response efforts. The program allows state and federal officials to implement disease control measures quickly when detections occur.

HPAI was first detected in U.S. dairy cattle in March 2024 and has since been identified in multiple states. USDA provides current information on HPAI detections in livestock. Oregon began statewide dairy milk surveillance in December 2024 and continues to test milk from all licensed dairy operations routinely. ODA appreciates the cooperation of Oregon dairy producers and industry partners who participate in ongoing surveillance, disease reporting, and biosecurity efforts that help protect animal health and Oregon’s dairy industry.