Will H5N1 impact cattle exhibitions at local fairs? Learn about the potential restrictions and how they might affect your summer plans. Stay informed and prepared.
The rapid spread of the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus, H5N1, to lactating dairy cows is a pressing concern. This could significantly impact the ability to showcase cattle at fairs this summer. Dr. Katie Cornille from the Minnesota Board of Animal Health stresses that while additional precautions might be taken this year, no final decision has been made.
Dr. Cornille, a key figure in this situation, shares, “We also want to be mindful of the county fair season, and in the next day or so, we’ll be able to issue more specific guidance for any lactating dairy animals that may be going to an exhibition event like a county fair.” Her expertise and guidance are crucial in navigating this situation.
In a recent interview with Brownfield Radio Network, Lisa Behnke from the World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin, assured that they are actively monitoring the H5N1 situation. They are committed to providing timely updates and new information to exhibitors and attendees as it becomes available from USDA, the state, and the veterinary community, demonstrating their proactive approach to the situation.
Behnke emphasizes the collaborative efforts between the World Dairy Expo, the veterinary community, and regulators. They are working together to ensure that the Expo upholds any recommendations to ensure the safety and viability of the U.S. dairy herd. This unity of purpose is a testament to the industry’s commitment to tackling the H5N1 outbreak.
Behnke adds that the World Dairy Expo has until September to finalize show guidelines. Still, many local fairs kick off in the next few weeks, leaving limited preparation time.
In Michigan, showing lactating cattle and cattle in the last two months of pregnancy has already been banned to curb the spread of H5N1. Minnesota and Iowa confirmed their first H5N1 dairy outbreaks on Wednesday. The virus has impacted eighty-four herds across eleven states, including:
- Texas
- Ohio
- Michigan
- South Dakota
- Kansas
- Colorado
- Idaho
- New Mexico
- North Carolina
