The updated ELAP programme will now cover a portion of the financial losses incurred by dairy producers due to reduced milk production when cattle are removed from commercial milking operations after a confirmed positive H5N1 test. This move aims to help sustain the economic viability of dairy producers affected by the virus.
“USDA remains committed to working with producers, state veterinarians, animal health professionals, and our federal partners as we continue to detect the presence of H5N1 in dairy herds and take additional measures to contain the spread of the disease,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.
He added: “When something unexpected, like H5N1, threatens the economic stability of the producers we serve, we are committed to finding ways, where we have the authority to do so, to revisit existing program policies and provide the financial support needed to help producers recover and sustain production.”