MISSOULA — Millions of birds across the United States have been impacted by avian influenza, also known as the bird flu, since 2022. But H5N1 isn't just limited to birds anymore as animals from grizzly bears to dairy cows have all tested positive for the virus. The virus is proving deadly, especially for those in the agriculture industry.

Since Influenza A or flu viruses are named after the animal where they are most commonly found, avian viruses are naturally found in birds. H5N1 is a highly transmissible and usually mild disease in geese,