Minnesota Ag Connection - First U.S. Goat Infected with Avian Influenza Detected in Minnesota

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First U.S. Goat Infected with Avian Influenza Detected in Minnesota
Minnesota Ag Connection - 03/26/2024

Minnesota has reported the first case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a goat in the United States, raising concerns among livestock producers. The infected goat, detected on a farm in Minnesota, highlights the importance of implementing biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of the virus, especially in neighboring states like Missouri.

David Brown, a small-ruminant specialist at the University of Missouri Extension, emphasizes the need for caution among producers in Missouri following this development. While there is currently no immediate threat to sheep and goat producers in Missouri, Brown advises strict adherence to biosecurity protocols to safeguard their herds.

The infected goat in Minnesota had shared pasture and a pond with poultry, underscoring the potential for cross-species transmission. Producers are urged to quarantine new additions to their herds and source animals from disease-free establishments. Additionally, measures such as preventing poultry from accessing grazing areas used by other livestock and providing separate water sources for poultry and other animals are recommended.

The diagnosis of avian influenza in the goat was confirmed through testing at the Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostics Laboratory and subsequent analysis at a USDA lab in Ames, Iowa. The virus strain identified, H5N1, has been observed in wild birds and poultry globally. USDA health officials are conducting an investigation on the affected farm to determine the extent of the outbreak.

Spring migration poses a heightened risk period for avian influenza transmission among poultry, with the potential for infection in farms housing multiple species. While mammals are considered dead-end hosts for HPAI and are unlikely to spread the virus, vigilance is crucial. Producers are encouraged to report any sudden livestock deaths to health authorities and seek guidance from local extension offices to establish effective on-farm biosecurity measures.

For additional resources and information on avian influenza, producers can visit the American Association of Small Ruminant Practitioners website and download the available toolkit for comprehensive guidance on disease management and prevention strategies.

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