Farm show

USDA MEDIA BY LANCE CHEUNG.

California State Veterinarian Dr. Annette Jones issued a statewide ban on dairy cattle and poultry shows to combat the spread of the bird flu virus. The measure aims to minimize exposure of people and non-infected cows and birds.

This move follows a declaration of a state of emergency by Governor Gavin Newsome last month. The exhibition ban will remain in effect until the bird flu outbreak is under control.

The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) reported the outbreak has affected over 700 dairy herds and 60 poultry flocks. There have been 149 new confirmed cases over the last 30 days.

The CDFA requests dairy and poultry owners to take immediate action and prevent the mingling of livestock with wild birds or other infected animals. This includes avoiding the movement or sharing of potentially contaminated equipment and ensuring rigorous sanitation practices.

Read more about California’s ban on dairy and poultry exhibitions here.