Wisconsin Farmers Ramp Up Bio-Security Measures to Guard Against Bird Flu in Cattle

In a bid to keep Wisconsin cattle free from avian influenza, local farmers and the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) have heightened preventive measures. Despite no cases of bird flu in cattle being reported in the state, vigilance remains high.

Recently, the United States Department of Agriculture identified a new strain of H5N1 avian influenza in a Nevada dairy herd. This discovery has prompted swift action and increased precautions among dairy farmers nationwide, including those in Wisconsin.

The DATCP has urged the farming community to maintain rigorous bio-security practices. According to Dr. Darlene Konkle, Wisconsin's State Veterinarian, simple actions like regular hand washing and thorough cleaning of equipment used around animals are crucial in preventing the virus's spread.

Miltrim Farms, a dairy farm in Athens, Wisconsin, exemplifies these practices by conducting comprehensive health checks and limiting wildlife interaction with their herds. Co-owner David Trimner emphasizes the importance of these precautions and state regulations that govern cattle movement across borders.

In the event of an outbreak, the DATCP, in collaboration with agriculture industry stakeholders, veterinarians, and the USDA, has prepared contingency plans to swiftly detect and contain the virus. Miltrim Farms has additional protocols to isolate and test affected cows, ensuring the health of the remainder of the herd.

Furthermore, advanced technology aids in early illness detection at Miltrim Farms, where some cows are robotically milked and monitored with NEDAP collars, similar to fitness trackers for cows.

Should an outbreak occur, Trimner assures that milk pasteurization processes would eliminate the virus from dairy products, safeguarding consumer health.