January 4, 2008

Minnesota cattle herds negative for bovine TB

In a massive campaign against bovine tuberculosis, the Board of Animal Health in Minnesota proudly announced that around 1,500 cattle herds have tested negative for bovine tuberculosis, bringing the state's aim closer to become TB-free.

Minnesota Board of Animal Health Senior Veterinarian Dr Linda Glaser said the completion of this testing campaign indicates a "success" and a "direct result of the tireless efforts of Minnesota's cattle producers and veterinarians".

The statewide surveillance, which started in September 2006, is part of a comprehensive plan authored by the Board with state and federal partners to eliminate bovine TB from Minnesota's livestock and wildlife populations. In addition to the 1500 statewide surveillance herds, 326 herds have been tested as part of the state's disease investigation and area testing efforts. Testing continues in northwestern Minnesota where the disease has been found.