As of May 12, 2025, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 has been confirmed in 1,055 livestock premises across 18 U.S. states, affecting dairy cattle, pigs, and one alpaca. While the outbreak continues to unfold in the U.S., no cases of HPAI have been detected in Canadian dairy cattle.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides an interactive map detailing the latest HPAI detections in livestock: APHIS.
In Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), in collaboration with the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) and Health Canada, is actively monitoring for signs of HPAI in Canadian dairy herds. As of May 8, 2025, CFIA laboratories have tested 3,498 raw milk samples from processing plants across all provinces, with all samples testing negative. Additionally, as of September 5, 2024, 1,211 retail milk samples from across Canada have been tested, all yielding negative results.
Canadians can be assured that commercial milk and milk products remain safe to consume. In Canada, all milk sold must be pasteurized. A 2024 study conducted by Health Canada confirmed that the pasteurization process effectively inactivates the HPAI virus, consistent with international findings.
Animal Health Canada, along with federal agencies and industry partners, continues to meet weekly to share updates, answer questions, and coordinate Canada’s response. This collaborative effort spans veterinarians, industry associations, laboratories, and regulatory authorities.
HPAI is a reportable disease in Canada. All suspected cases in animals must be reported to the CFIA. Any non-CFIA laboratories working with HPAI virus samples, including those testing milk or animal specimens, must follow strict biosafety protocols and notify the CFIA of any detections.
This situation remains fluid. Animal Health Canada and its partners will continue to provide timely updates as new information becomes available. For more information, visit the CFIA or Health Canada websites.
