September 20, 2024

 

Canadian farmers advised against US agricultural exhibitions amid avian flu outbreak in dairy cattle

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has advised Canadian farmers to avoid taking cattle to US agricultural exhibitions due to ongoing outbreaks of avian influenza in American dairy cattle, The Western Producer reported.

 

In a statement on its website, the CFIA acknowledged the importance of these events for farmers but warned of the risks posed by highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).

 

"While we understand the traditional and business significance of attending these events, the current HPAI situation in the US may pose a risk of introducing and spreading the virus into Canada and may negatively impact the health of your animals," the CFIA said.

 

At the end of August, California became the fourteenth state in the US to report an outbreak of bird flu in dairy cattle this year. Sixteen individuals, mostly farm workers, have also tested positive for the virus.

 

The CFIA specifically discouraged participation in US exhibitions, especially in states where avian flu outbreaks have been reported in cattle or poultry.

 

Some US exhibitions may have specific testing requirements for cattle entering their events. The CFIA urged Canadian farmers to contact exhibition organizers to ensure they meet any necessary protocols before departing for the US.

 

Since mid-August, Canadian cattle returning after stays of less than 60 days in the US have required a special export certification statement. This document, signed by a veterinarian, must confirm that the animal has tested negative for avian influenza within the previous seven days. Since late April, lactating cattle entering Canada from the US have been subject to mandatory avian influenza testing.

 

The CFIA also recommended that beef cattle be isolated for 21 days upon returning to Canada. Dairy cattle returning from the U.S. will face additional isolation requirements, including bulk tank testing, individual cattle tests, and other precautionary measures.

 

To date, there have been no reported cases of avian influenza in Canadian cattle.

 

-      The Western Producer