South Dakota addresses bird flu in dairy cows

By Scout Nelson

South Dakota has confirmed its first cases of avian flu in dairy cows, prompting state veterinarian Dr. Beth Thompson to propose a new question on livestock health certification forms. This initiative aims to prevent further spread by ensuring that animals entering the state are not from herds known to be infected with the virus.

Historically, avian flu was believed to affect only bird populations. However, recent findings in South Dakota and other states show that livestock, particularly dairy cows, are also susceptible.

The disease has manifested in these cows with symptoms like reduced milk production and loss of appetite, although they generally recover with proper isolation.

The proposal by Dr. Thompson comes after the disease was detected in approximately 50 of 2,700 cows at a Brown County dairy, with the initial tests conducted by South Dakota State University and confirmed by USDA's National Veterinary Services Laboratories.

To combat the spread, states like Idaho have imposed strict quarantines and restricted livestock imports from farms where the virus has been detected. In South Dakota, measures focus on enhanced screening rather than more severe restrictions, given the considerable movement of dairy cows nationally and the potential risks associated with dairy operations.

The state continues to gather more information on how the virus reached the affected dairy herd, and authorities are cautious about imposing further restrictions until more is understood about the transmission of the virus.

The situation highlights the complexities of managing livestock diseases in a globalized agricultural environment, where the movement of animals can potentially introduce new health challenges.

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