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Impact of Bird Flu on Dairy Fairs This Summer
WEST ALLIS, Wisconsin (Reuters) – The ongoing avian influenza outbreak has brought significant changes to state fair traditions, especially in Michigan, where health concerns have caused organizers to pivot from live dairy cows to more unconventional options. This year, the Michigan State Fair will showcase Milkshake and Buttercup, two life-sized fiberglass cows that simulate milking with rubber teats and water-filled udders, instead of real cows that would typically participate in milking demonstrations.
Other fairs, including the Minnesota State Fair, have adapted in kind. Here, Jill Nathe, the deputy general manager of agriculture and competition, mentioned the introduction of a faux dairy cow named Olympia for their usual hands-on milking experience, noting the ongoing prevalence of health risks as the reason for this change. “Normally, we’d have a real cow out there,” she stated, highlighting the necessary adjustments being made.
Since the emergence of the H5N1 strain of avian influenza, which has notably begun affecting cattle herds and affecting dairy workers, fair organizers across the U.S. are facing challenges to maintain the spirit of these beloved summer events. The anxiety surrounding potential virus transmission has led some dairy farmers to hesitate in testing their herds, raising concerns about the virus adapting to spread between humans.
In response, county fairs in Michigan have canceled dairy competitions altogether, while the Iowa State Fair closed its milking barn. Meanwhile, Minnesota officials equipped their livestock teams with masks and gloves from previous COVID-19 stockpiles, and pregnant cows were kept out of birthing centers to mitigate any risks.
Dairy farmers, facing increased scrutiny, must navigate stringent testing protocols to ensure their animals are clear of the virus before entering the show ring. In Wisconsin, stringent regulations have mandated that lactating cattle must test negative within seven days of their arrival at fairgrounds. Dairy farmer Rick “RT” Thompson described the logistical challenges he’s faced in arranging timely veterinarian visits to obtain the necessary test results.
As for Michigan, the state’s current regulations bar lactating cows from public events until a two-month period without new cases. Unfortunately, given the recent reports of infections, the upcoming state fair window for exhibitors has closed, much to the disappointment of local fairgoers.
Altered Experiences at the Fairs
This year’s Wisconsin State Fair introduced additional measures to ensure animal health. Veterinarians undertook inspections of cattle right upon their arrival, a significant policy change from previous years. Jennifer and Bethany Droessler chose to leave their lactating cow at home due to health concerns, instead opting to exhibit other cattle for attendees to interact with. “We’ll aim for next year and hopefully it won’t be an issue,” expressed Jennifer Droessler, reflecting the sentiments of many exhibitors facing similar decisions.
Since March, over 190 dairy herds across the country have been impacted by the outbreak, with 13 farm workers confirming positive tests after exposure. Fortunately, all workers have recovered, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintains that H5N1 poses a low risk to the general public. Nevertheless, they caution against any contact with animals at fairs, advising attendees to avoid eating or drinking in animal areas.
Despite the heightened awareness and adjustments to traditional fair activities, many visitors remain unaware of the new guidelines, indulging in classic fair treats like taffy apples and cheese curds. One fairgoer, O.E. Glieber, expressed a sense of skepticism regarding the health concerns, suggesting that the CDC might be overreacting, reflecting a divergence in public perception amidst ongoing health discussions.
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