What Is HPAI? Understanding High Path Avian Influenza and Our Commitment to Biosecurity
- darren wong
- Sep 10
- 4 min read
Matt Jones and Melissa Davis of Where Food Comes From share expert insights on biosecurity strategies and solutions for combating Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza.
High Path Avian Influenza (HPAI) continues to make headlines across the livestock and food industries, raising concerns among producers, processors, retailers, and consumers alike. As outbreaks impact everything from poultry and egg production to dairy and even international trade, it’s more important than ever to understand what HPAI is and how it’s being prevented.
What Is Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)?
HPAI, or Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, is a contagious viral disease that affects birds, including wild birds and domestic poultry, dairy cattle, cats, dogs, and various wild mammals. Certain strains, like H5N1, can cause severe illness and high mortality rates in herds and flocks.
How Does HPAI Spread?
HPAI spreads rapidly through direct contact with infected animals, contaminated surfaces, equipment, clothing, and even airborne particles. Common vectors include:
People and vehicles moving between farms
Wild birds interacting with livestock
Contaminated tools and equipment, such as pens, clipboards, or footwear
Clothing and personal items not properly sanitized between site visits
Understanding and managing these risks is crucial for stopping the spread.
The Impact of HPAI
The economic and emotional toll of an HPAI outbreak is significant. Affected farms may experience:
Massive flock losses due to illness or depopulation protocols
Supply chain disruptions for eggs, poultry, and now, potentially milk
Trade restrictions or market access barriers
Long recovery periods due to biosecurity shutdowns and site cleanings
It also places an emotional strain on producers and their teams adding to the pressure of ensuring animal welfare and consumer safety.
Prevention and Control Measures
Controlling HPAI requires rigorous, science-based biosecurity measures. Some of the most effective strategies include:
Strict downtime protocols between farm visits (72 hours for poultry and swine, 36 hours for dairy)
Use of PPE such as disposable coveralls, double-layered booties, and gloves
Shower-in/shower-out policies at high-risk or designated facilities
Equipment sanitation for items like clipboards, phones, and pens
Avoidance of off-site contamination, including gas station floor mats and farm pets
Biosecurity doesn't just begin on the farm, it starts well before our auditors arrive and continues long after they leave.
HPAI Frequently Asked Questions
For Consumers
Q: Can HPAI be transmitted to humans through eating poultry, eggs, or dairy?
A: According to USDA and FDA guidance, HPAI is not a food safety risk when poultry, eggs, and dairy are properly handled and cooked to recommended internal temperatures. The virus is primarily an animal health concern.
Q: Should I avoid buying poultry, eggs, or dairy during an outbreak?
A: No. Products available in stores have gone through strict inspection processes. USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) ensures the food supply remains safe, wholesome, and properly labeled.
Q: Does pasteurization kill HPAI in milk?
A: Yes. Pasteurization effectively inactivates viruses, including HPAI, in milk and dairy products.
Q: How can I support farmers impacted by HPAI?
A: Buy directly from local producers, support verified brands, and look for labels from trusted certification programs that demonstrate strong biosecurity and animal welfare practices.
For Producers
Q: How can I protect my animals from HPAI?
A: Enforce strict biosecurity measures, such as downtime between visitors, PPE for all personnel, equipment disinfection, controlled farm access, and regular communication with your veterinarian.
Q: What are “downtime” requirements for auditors or visitors?
A: For poultry and swine sites, the standard downtime is 72 hours. For dairy, it’s typically 36 hours unless otherwise required by the facility. This ensures reduced risk of cross-site contamination.
Q: What steps should I take if I suspect HPAI in my flock or herd?
A: Immediately contact your veterinarian and state animal health official. They will coordinate with USDA APHIS to confirm cases and initiate containment measures.
Q: How does third-party verification help during disease outbreaks?
A: Certification programs that include strong biosecurity standards help reinforce consistent practices, document compliance, and provide an additional layer of oversight -helping to protect your operation’s health status and market access.
How We Help: Trusted Auditors, Trained for Biosecurity
At Where Food Comes From, our Validus auditors undergo comprehensive biosecurity training to reduce the risk of spreading disease between operations. Each auditor:
Follows a strict pre-audit protocol to confirm biosecurity requirements with producers
Practices thorough sanitation and equipment prep
Wears double layers of protective gear
Maintains detailed logs and documentation of visits and downtimes
Works in collaboration with local, state, and federal veterinarians to stay aligned with the latest science
Whether auditing poultry, dairy, swine, or beef operations, our teams understand the serious threat HPAI poses and are committed to doing our part in protecting animals, people, and food systems.
Biosecurity is not just a policy, it’s a mindset. At Where Food Comes From, we bring that mindset to every audit. As HPAI and other emerging animal health risks evolve, we remain vigilant, educated, and proactive.
If you’re looking for a verification partner who truly understands the stakes, you can trust us to show up prepared, informed, and dedicated to reducing risk on your operation.
Meet Our Experts
Matt Jones
Matt Jones is Vice President of Operations at Validus, where he leads certification programs and auditor training across North America. With deep roots in Midwest agriculture and over 20 years of experience in animal welfare, food safety, and sustainability, Matt brings practical insight and proven expertise to every audit.
Melissa Davis
Melissa Davis is the Technical Services & Animal Welfare Program Manager at Where Food Comes From, Inc. She holds a Ph.D. in livestock behavior and welfare from Colorado State University and has dedicated her career to helping producers uphold the highest standards in animal care and sustainability. Drawing on her background in research and hands-on industry experience, Melissa works to create practical solutions that benefit animals, producers, and the agricultural community as a whole.