The CFIA has not reported any cases of avian influenza in Canadian dairy cows.

OTTAWA — The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is urging farmers and veterinarians to watch for signs of avian influenza in dairy cows following the recent discovery of cases in herds in the United States.

Avian influenza has not been detected in dairy cows or other livestock in Canada. But since March, US authorities have confirmed cases of infection in herds in nine states.

Health authorities suspect wild birds may have transmitted the virus to livestock, although cattle appear to suffer from a milder form of the disease than birds.

No cows have died from the virus, and infected cattle usually recover within a few weeks.

Avian influenza had no impact on livestock production or trade. The virus does not pose a food safety risk and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency says the risk of transmission to humans remains low.

The federal agency is asking veterinarians and dairy farmers to watch for signs of illness, such as a sudden decrease in milk quantity or change in milk consistency.