California state vet bans poultry, dairy exhibits at state fairs
The ban is in effect until further notice
13 January 2025
1 minute read
By: In a recent announcement, California State Veterinarian Annette Jones banned all poultry and dairy cattle exhibitions at fairs and shows until further notice. The ban was announced in response to frequent and widespread H5N1 avian influenza outbreaks, which have impacts dairy herds and domestic poultry across the state. This action is required to minimise the danger of exposing people and non-infected cows and birds to the disease, she said.
The announcement comes not long after California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency due to these detections. Since August 2024, there have been over 700 dairy herds and 60 poultry flocks affecting over 15 million birds with new dairies and flocks being detected.
"We urge dairy cow and poultry owners to prevent this devastating disease by continuing to practice enhanced biosecurity measures and prevent co-mingling with wild bird populations, with other poultry/dairy cows, and their owners," said Jones. "They should also avoid moving or sharing equipment that may serve to transfer the virus."
The cooperation of cow and bird owners is critical in controlling this disease. When exposed cows and birds are not moved and co-mingled, disease spread can be prevented.
"We will continue to assess the threat over the next few months and rescind this ban if the situation changes," Jones concluded.
