Louisiana Agriculture Department Urges Vigilance Amid Cattle Disease Outbreak
Source: The DairyNews
As the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) virus emerges in cattle herds nationwide, the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) is issuing a call for increased vigilance and stringent safety measures in the dairy industry.
The LDAF warns dairy producers to heighten biosecurity protocols in response to reported cases of the cattle disease across multiple states. Highly contagious and often fatal, HPAI poses a significant threat to poultry and livestock populations. Detected in unpasteurized milk samples and clinical specimens from sick cattle, the virus has prompted concerns regarding its potential transmission to domestic animals.
While HPAI has been identified in dairy cattle in states such as Texas, New Mexico, and Michigan, Louisiana has yet to report any cases. To safeguard local dairy herds and poultry flocks, the LDAF has implemented a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection requirement for the transportation of dairy cattle from states with recent HPAI detections.
LDAF Commissioner Mike Strain, D.V.M., emphasizes the importance of enhanced biosecurity practices to mitigate the risk of HPAI introduction into Louisiana. The certification, valid for up to seven days, aims to prevent the potential spread of the virus within the state.
In addition to monitoring dairy cows for signs of illness and preventing sick cow milk from entering interstate commerce, the LDAF recommends strict adherence to biosecurity measures and a 30-day quarantine period for new animals. Prompt reporting of symptoms such as sudden milk production decline and changes in milk quality is essential for early detection and response.
While the consumption of raw milk is discouraged, the safety and availability of pasteurized milk products remain unaffected. Pasteurization effectively eliminates bacteria and viruses, ensuring the safety of milk intended for interstate commerce.
Producers are urged to collaborate with the State Animal Health Official’s office for diagnostic testing if illness is detected in their cows. For further inquiries regarding milk safety during the outbreak, farmers can refer to the USDA website for guidance.
Through these proactive measures and continued vigilance, the LDAF aims to protect Louisiana's livestock industry and minimize the potential impact of HPAI on dairy and poultry producers statewide.
While HPAI has been identified in dairy cattle in states such as Texas, New Mexico, and Michigan, Louisiana has yet to report any cases. To safeguard local dairy herds and poultry flocks, the LDAF has implemented a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection requirement for the transportation of dairy cattle from states with recent HPAI detections.
LDAF Commissioner Mike Strain, D.V.M., emphasizes the importance of enhanced biosecurity practices to mitigate the risk of HPAI introduction into Louisiana. The certification, valid for up to seven days, aims to prevent the potential spread of the virus within the state.
In addition to monitoring dairy cows for signs of illness and preventing sick cow milk from entering interstate commerce, the LDAF recommends strict adherence to biosecurity measures and a 30-day quarantine period for new animals. Prompt reporting of symptoms such as sudden milk production decline and changes in milk quality is essential for early detection and response.
While the consumption of raw milk is discouraged, the safety and availability of pasteurized milk products remain unaffected. Pasteurization effectively eliminates bacteria and viruses, ensuring the safety of milk intended for interstate commerce.
Producers are urged to collaborate with the State Animal Health Official’s office for diagnostic testing if illness is detected in their cows. For further inquiries regarding milk safety during the outbreak, farmers can refer to the USDA website for guidance.
Through these proactive measures and continued vigilance, the LDAF aims to protect Louisiana's livestock industry and minimize the potential impact of HPAI on dairy and poultry producers statewide.
