Florida reports zero cases of livestock virus sweeping the nation

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services reported that the state has zero cases of a livestock disease spreading throughout the U.S.

The department emphasized that pasteurization of milk is effective at inactivating the virus, known as the “Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza.”

The state added how unpasteurized, or raw milk, still poses a threat to humans.

The update came after Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson issued an emergency order in April, imposing certain restrictions on the state’s cattle importation.

“This emergency rule is a critical step in protecting Florida’s livestock and the health of our citizens,” Simpson said in a press release when he announced the order.

“We are committed to working collaboratively with federal, state, and industry partners to mitigate the risks posed by Bovine Associated Influenza A Syndrome and ensure the continued safety and integrity of Florida’s agriculture industry, which has a more than $180 billion annual impact and supports more than 2.5 million jobs,” he added.

The rule allows for the state to restrict not only the importation of cattle who have been exposed to the disease, but also any lactating dairy cattle from states with suspected or confirmed cases.

Non-lactating dairy cattle from states with suspected or confirmed cases must have a valid veterinary inspection certificate completed no more than 10 days prior to importation.