Resources for Event Organizers
As spring approaches, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) continues to provide event organizers with online resources. The DATCP event organizer webpage offers guidance to help ensure biosecurity and successful event planning. It is important to be aware of the risk of disease transmission when moving animals, as transporting them can spread infectious diseases and impact animal health. Adhering to biosecurity measures and proper protocols is crucial in minimizing these risks and protecting both livestock and public health.
Access the DATCP webpage for event organizers.
Review and use of these resources is crucial for event organizers, as the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed more than 970 cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), or H5N1, in dairy herds across the country, and in at least one poultry flock in each state during the outbreak. Moving livestock, including to and from fairs and events, increases risk of disease transmission.
April 24, 2024 Federal Order Requirements
Lactating dairy cattle must test negative for Influenza A virus at a National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN) lab before interstate movement.
A subset of 30 cows must be tested for groups moving together.
June 19, 2024 Wisconsin State Order Requirements
DATCP requires Influenza A testing prior to movement of lactating dairy cattle to fairs or exhibitions. This intrastate order requiring a negative Influenza A test prior to travelling to a show or exhibition will remain in effect until 60 days after the last detection of H5N1 in cattle herds in the United States or as rescinded by the Wisconsin State Veterinarian.
Wisconsin and the National Milk Testing Strategy
In December 2024, the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced the start of its National Milk Testing Strategy (NMTS). The NMTS builds on measures taken by USDA and federal and state partners since H5N1 was first detected in dairy cattle in March 2024.
Wisconsin has collaborated with state and federal partners to develop a testing strategy tailored to the state's unique dairy industry and announced the state’s participation in the NMTS. Details on testing will be forthcoming, but at this time, DATCP expects to use samples already collected for routine milk testing to streamline the process. This testing does not replace individual animal testing requirements outlined in the April 24, 2024 federal order or the June 19, 2024 Wisconsin order.
Biosecurity and Monitoring
When planning events with animals in 2025, it is crucial to emphasize biosecurity:
As a reminder, DATCP regularly updates the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) in Dairy Cattle and the DATCP Home Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Poultry webpages with resources, including those related to biosecurity and animal movement. Producers are encouraged to continue enhancing their biosecurity efforts and to monitor their herds and flocks for symptoms.
DATCP is closely monitoring H5N1 and urges producers who notice unusual clinical signs to work with their herd veterinarian. To report herds with unexplained symptoms, veterinarians should contact DATCP at (608) 224-4872 (business hours) or (800) 943-0003 (after hours and weekends).
Human Health
Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance (for the public, workers, and employers), the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) encourages those working with animals to take precautions and wear personal protective equipment (PPE). PPE is available to order at no cost from the Wisconsin DHS medical stockpile while supplies last. DHS recommends that you talk to your health care provider if you are developing flu-like symptoms after working closely with animals, or especially sick animals. These symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, or eye redness.
Stay Informed
For more updates on HPAI and biosecurity resources, visit DATCP Home Avian Influenza. DATCP will continue to update this site with new information as it becomes available.
Additional Resources
Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection
Division of Animal Health
https://datcp.wi.gov
|
