An unknown cause of illness has been reported in dairy cows in Texas. Affected cows presented with decreased milk production, decreased feed consumption, and reduced rumen motility. While there is limited information available about the cases at this time; older, late lactation cows appear most likely to be affected. There are no reports of increased death losses, and youngstock are not reported to be affected. USDA APHIS Veterinary Services is working closely with the Texas Animal Health Commission and neighboring states as they continue to investigate potential cases.

At this time, Wisconsin has not made any changes to import requirements for cattle from Texas in response to these cases. Current import rules for cattle can be found on the DATCP: Cattle & Bison Movement webpage. It is important to check requirements prior to importing animals from any state, as requirements can change. Requirements such as official identification and certificates of veterinary inspection (CVIs) help ensure all cattle entering Wisconsin are healthy prior to import. Tuberculosis testing is required for cattle imported from Texas and Michigan. The DATCP Division of Animal Health encourages producers to practice good biosecurity, including isolating new additions to the herd for at least 7 - 10 days. Further information on biosecurity practices can be found on the DATCP: Basic Biosecurity webpage and SecureMilkSupply.org.

If producers notice unusual clinical signs in their cattle, they are encouraged to work with their herd veterinarian. No animals consistent with the current case definition have been reported in Wisconsin. Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory has provided sample collection guidance for herds with consistent clinical signs. To report herds with unexplained symptoms, veterinarians should contact DATCP at (608) 224-4872 (business hours) or (800) 943-0003 (after hours and weekends).

Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection
Division of Animal Health
https://datcp.wi.gov