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First case of avian influenza hits South Dakota dairy herd

First case of avian influenza hits South Dakota dairy herd


By Scout Nelson

The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) and the Animal Industry Board (AIB) recently confirmed the first case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a dairy cattle herd in South Dakota. This discovery was verified by the USDA's National Veterinary Services Laboratory.

Marv Post, Chairman of the South Dakota Dairy Producers, is urging all dairy farmers to monitor their cattle closely and to contact their veterinarian if symptoms are observed.

Symptoms include reduced milk production, loss of appetite, and changes in manure consistency, particularly in late-stage lactating cows.

Despite concerns, there is no threat to the safety of the commercial milk supply or public health. All dairies must ensure that only milk from healthy animals enters the food chain.

The pasteurization process, which heats milk to a high temperature, guarantees the safety of milk and dairy products.

This process effectively inactivates viruses and bacteria, as supported by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), which strongly advises against consuming unpasteurized or raw milk.

Ongoing investigations by federal and state health and veterinary authorities, including the USDA, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the CDC, aim to understand and mitigate this outbreak among dairy cows.

These efforts focus on controlling the spread and ensuring the continuity of safe dairy production and supply.

Photo Credit -gettyimages-ahavelaar

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Categories: South Dakota, Livestock, Dairy Cattle

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