With bovine TB in the Upper portion of Michigan for more than 15 years, why has BOAH and DNR not tested animals before now?
BOAH and DNR have been very concerned about the potential for the spread of TB into the state of Indiana. That is why, more than 10 years ago, the two agencies began a public education effort to raise awareness of what TB looks like in cervids. Information has consistently appeared in the Indiana Hunter and Trapper Guide, including guidance for hunters to call for reporting and requesting assistance. Most processing facilities, meat inspection staff members and taxidermists have been provided with color photo reference cards to help identify signs of the disease, should they handle carcasses that may be infected. This passive surveillance system results in numerous hunter calls to BOAH each year and some sampling of animals. To date, none have tested positive. Hunters statewide are encouraged to contact BOAH to report any unusual appearance of their harvested animals. Indiana has had TB testing requirements for several years for all live cervids imported into the state.
BOAH and DNR have been very concerned about the potential for the spread of TB into the state of Indiana. That is why, more than 10 years ago, the two agencies began a public education effort to raise awareness of what TB looks like in cervids. Information has consistently appeared in the Indiana Hunter and Trapper Guide, including guidance for hunters to call for reporting and requesting assistance. Most processing facilities, meat inspection staff members and taxidermists have been provided with color photo reference cards to help identify signs of the disease, should they handle carcasses that may be infected. This passive surveillance system results in numerous hunter calls to BOAH each year and some sampling of animals. To date, none have tested positive. Hunters statewide are encouraged to contact BOAH to report any unusual appearance of their harvested animals. Indiana has had TB testing requirements for several years for all live cervids imported into the state. Likewise, breed
Related Questions
- If bovine TB isn’t a concern regarding the safety of our food supply, why is the state taking such aggressive action to test for and control the potential spread of the disease?
- With bovine TB in the Upper portion of Michigan for more than 15 years, why has BOAH and DNR not tested animals before now?
- Is bovine TB a treatable disease?
