Funding for dairy farms regardless of H5N1 status and a cautionary note for poultry owners

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board of animal health

Animal Bytes

July 2024

Poultry owners encouraged to prepare before visiting a fair.

Fair ticket booth and wheel

Unfortunately, H5N1 in cattle and poultry is not going away this summer. Please remember, you are the best advocate and protector of your flock's health. As you prepare for upcoming livestock exhibitions, it’s important to understand the risks associated with bringing your birds to these events, particularly if cows will be present. Recent investigations show H5N1 influenza can spread between cattle and poultry, which poses a serious threat to your flock's health. While these exhibitions are excellent opportunities to showcase your hard work and connect with fellow farmers, it’s essential to prioritize the safety of your birds.

To minimize potential risks, we encourage all poultry owners to stay informed about the latest biosecurity practices. Avoid close contact with other animals and ensure your birds are healthy before attending any event. Lastly, contact the fair or event about other species being exhibited and only attend if you're comfortable bringing your birds. By taking these precautions, you can help protect your flock and others. Your vigilance and proactive measures are crucial to protecting birds from this virus.

Keep reading...

Webinar: H5N1 update and how to apply for financial resources

Join an important H5N1 webinar hosted by the Minnesota Board of Animal Health on Friday, July 26 at 12 p.m. Central, featuring presenters from the USDA. Key topics will include the latest information on the outbreak in dairy and how producers can apply for financial resources like milk loss payments. Federal experts will guide producers through available funding and how to calculate amounts herds may qualify to receive. This webinar is not exclusive to Minnesota and all interested producers are encouraged to register and attend.


Paper Certificates of Veterinary Inspection (CVIs) will no longer be accepted after January 1, 2026!

The Minnesota Board of Animal Health is making the switch from paper CVIs to electronic “eCVIs,” and did you know you can start using eCVIs right now? There’s no need to wait until the last minute. Protect your clients from travel or transportation delays by visiting our eCVI webpage for a step-by-step guide to get started.


Dairy producers encouraged to request info on financial support

Any dairy producers interested in financial support for their herd can fill out a brief online form to be contacted by the USDA and guided through applying for the options. Complete the H5N1 Financial Support Contact Request and a member of Minnesota's USDA staff will contact you to apply for funds. There are opportunities available for both H5N1 positive herds and those without confirmed cases.

September Board meeting biosecurity notice

Our upcoming September Board meeting will be hosted on an active farm. Please keep biosecurity in mind whether you're traveling from a farm of your own or a house in the city. Here are a few biosecurity suggestions to keep in mind:

  • Please park at the southernmost end of the parking area to avoid animal areas.
  • Don't wear any clothes or footwear from home that may have been in contact with livestock without being cleaned.
  • Please consider attending remotely if you have been on an actively infected farm in the two weeks before the meeting.
  • Consider stopping by a car wash before or after attending if your vehicle is heavily soiled.