Texas A&M’s $3M CDC-funded study investigates H5N1 risks in dairy workers using on-farm ‘shoe leather’ tactics.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: The CDC has allocated $3 million to Texas A&M researchers studying H5N1 bird flu exposure among Texas dairy workers through direct on-farm testing and interviews. Using “shoe leather epidemiology,” the team collects blood samples and work practice data while maintaining strict confidentiality to ensure accurate participation. This groundbreaking research identifies transmission risks and develops targeted safety protocols, combining expertise in public health, veterinary medicine, and occupational safety. Findings will inform protective measures for workers and strategies to safeguard national milk production. The study exemplifies a “One Health” approach, addressing interconnected human and animal health challenges in agriculture.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Active on-farm surveillance uncovers hidden H5N1 risks through blood tests and worker interviews.
- Multidisciplinary team combines epidemiology, veterinary science, and occupational safety expertise.
- Strict confidentiality protocols ensure participant trust and accurate data collection.
- Findings aim to protect both worker health and national dairy production stability.
- Research models “One Health” approach bridging animal/human disease prevention.
A team of Texas A&M researchers has launched an unprecedented investigation into H5N1 avian influenza exposure among dairy farm workers across the state. The $3 million CDC-funded study comes in direct response to America’s first-ever case of bird flu transmission from dairy cattle to a human, reported in Texas last April.
“There is very little information about how many people have been affected by H5N1 and who they are,” explains Dr. Jason Moats, emergency preparedness specialist on the research team. “Our goals are to identify the scope of exposure and understand the workplace factors involved so we can reduce transmission.”
Boots on the Ground Approach
Unlike traditional disease monitoring that relies on hospital reports, this research takes testing directly to farms. The team collects blood samples and nasal swabs from workers while conducting confidential interviews about their work practices.
“To encounter a disease and determine how to stop it, we have to load up all of our stuff and go to the people affected,” says Dr. Rebecca Fischer, infectious disease epidemiologist with Texas A&M. “We have longstanding relationships with dairy farmers, and they know they can trust us even in the most sensitive situations.”
This approach, called “shoe leather epidemiology,” allows researchers to detect cases that might otherwise go unreported, especially among workers who may not seek medical care for mild symptoms.
Farm Worker Privacy Protected
The research prioritizes complete confidentiality to encourage participation. No names, birthdates, or identifying information are collected, and findings are only reported in aggregate form that can’t identify specific farms.
“Our research is completely anonymous,” Fischer emphasizes. “We don’t take photos or ever talk to anyone about any aspect of what we do. That takes the fear out of being tested and helps ensure that our data are accurate and complete.”
This protection extends to farms as well. The team understands that positive H5N1 cases could create unwanted publicity or market concerns for dairy operations.
Elite Team Brings Diverse Expertise
Leading the investigation is Dr. David Douphrate, who brings over 20 years of experience in dairy farm worker safety. “Our School of Public Health is part of the largest land-grant institution in the nation,” he notes. “We are uniquely positioned to address agricultural health and safety issues, especially given our long track record of working within the dairy industry.”
The multidisciplinary team includes specialists in animal health, human epidemiology, occupational safety, and biostatistics. Dr. Loni Taylor brings dual expertise as both an epidemiologist and large animal veterinarian, providing crucial perspective on disease transmission at the human-animal interface.
External collaborators include Dr. Robert Hagevoort from New Mexico State University and Dr. Matthew Nonnenmann from the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
From Detection to Protection
When the team identifies H5N1 in workers, they don’t just collect data-they take action. Individuals with active infections are connected with healthcare services, while participating farms receive guidance on preventing further spread.
By analyzing which job tasks and practices are associated with transmission, researchers can develop targeted prevention strategies to protect the agricultural workforce. This might include specific recommendations on protective equipment, handling protocols, or environmental modifications.
“We are working with people who are largely ignored but who help make day-to-day life possible in this country,” notes Fischer, highlighting the essential yet often overlooked role of dairy workers.
National Food Security at Stake
The study’s implications extend far beyond individual farms. Douphrate frames the research as a matter of national security, quoting a former U.S. president’s warning that “a nation which cannot provide for itself through agriculture production is a nation at risk due to a reliance on external food sources.”
“Our nation’s ability to produce healthy foods is dependent on a healthy agricultural workforce,” he adds. This perspective elevates the work from a niche health concern to a critical component of America’s food system resilience.
Understanding the Risk
Since H5N1 first jumped from birds to dairy cattle in March 2024, the virus has created unprecedented challenges for the industry. The Texas case in April marked what CDC officials believe was the first documented transmission from birds to cattle to humans.
While the CDC currently assesses the risk to the general public as low, dairy workers face unique exposure through daily, close contact with animals during milking, feeding, and care activities.
Of the 70 human H5N1 cases reported globally since the virus emerged, four have been directly linked to sick dairy cows. The ongoing Texas A&M study will help determine if undetected cases exist among the workforce.
What This Means for Your Operation
For dairy producers, this research offers valuable insights without operational disruption or regulatory burden. Participation is entirely voluntary, with researchers working around farm schedules and maintaining strict confidentiality.
The knowledge gained could help farms implement targeted prevention measures before problems arise, potentially avoiding costly outbreaks that impact both worker health and herd productivity.
As results emerge over the coming year, The Bullvine will provide updates on practical recommendations for protecting your workforce and operation from this evolving threat.
“This is about protecting the people who sustain our food system,” concludes Douphrate. “By understanding how this virus spreads on dairy farms, we can develop practical safeguards that work in real-world conditions.”
Learn more:
- Protecting Dairy Farm Workers from H5N1 Bird Flu: Essential Steps for Employers and Supervisors
Learn practical strategies to safeguard your workforce from H5N1, including PPE, early detection, and biosecurity measures tailored for dairy operations. - Bird Flu in Raw Milk Causes Cat Fatalities on Texas Dairy Farm
A shocking case study on how raw milk from infected cows led to animal deaths-what it means for farm biosecurity and milk safety. - Avian Flu Hits Nevada Dairy Cows: Industry on High Alert
Get the latest on H5N1’s spread in dairy herds, USDA’s response, and what every producer must know to protect herds and ensure milk safety.
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