SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) - Bovine tuberculosis has been confirmed in a South Dakota cattle herd for the first time in four years.
The state’s Animal Industry Board says an infected beef cow was first identified in January by meat inspectors at a Minnesota packing plant during routine inspection. Records linked the cow to a herd in Corson County, where additional animals were later found to be infected.
State veterinarian Dustin Oedekoven says bovine tuberculosis is not currently a threat to food safety or human health because of milk pasteurization and meat inspection programs, the Argus Leader reported.
According to the South Dakota State University Extension office, cattle rarely show symptoms of the chronic respiratory disease. But, when they do they’re often vague and can include weight loss and sluggishness.
The progressive disease may only be transmitted to other animals when in close proximity for prolonged periods of time, according to Oedekoven.
The State Veterinarian’s office is working closely with the herd owner and other producers in the Corson County area, as well as the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Standing Rock Sioux Tribal officials, area veterinarians and wildlife officials to reduce further spread of the disease.
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