Daijiworld Media Network - Netherlands

Netherlands, Jan 29: Friesland, Netherlands: Avian influenza antibodies have been detected in a dairy cow at a Friesland farm, marking the first such finding in European cattle, authorities confirmed. However, there is no evidence of active viral circulation among the dairy herd on the farm.

According to the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, random testing of dairy cattle was conducted on 15 January, and no animals were found to be sick at the time. Milk samples analysed by Wageningen Bioveterinary Research showed no presence of the active virus. Further testing revealed antibodies in one cow, indicating a previous infection with avian influenza.

The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) revisited the farm on 22 January, taking blood and milk samples from all cattle. Tests confirmed that no avian influenza virus was present on the farm.

Authorities emphasised that while the finding of antibodies is notable, the absence of active virus means there is currently no risk of an outbreak among dairy cattle at the farm.