MONTGOMERY — The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) is issuing guidelines to protect animal health in response to the detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in dairy cattle in 12 states.

Since livestock shows held in conjunction with fairs across Alabama will be starting soon, attendees should abide by these guidelines.

"We know livestock shows are the highlight of fairs across the state, and it is a top priority to ensure the health of livestock and their owners," Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate said in a press release. "To make the shows a great experience for all, exhibitors should comply with all biosecurity measures recommended."

Even though there have been no detections of HPAI in dairy cattle in Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Mississippi or Tennessee, State Veterinarian Dr. Tony Frazier urges owners to closely adhere to these guidelines on how to protect livestock and their owners.

ADAI has partnered with the Alabama Department of Public Health and the Alabama National Fair to establish biosecurity measures that should be followed before, during and after livestock events.

Before the show

• Animal's health should be monitored. If an animal is sick, do not bring it to the show.
• Show equipment and hauling trailer should be cleaned and disinfected before leaving the farm.

During the show

• Animals should be monitored for heat stress and any signs of illness.
• No equipment or tools should be shared with other exhibitors.
• When animals are watered using a community hose, do not stick the hose in the bucket or allow them to drink directly from the hose.

After the show

• When returning from a show, isolate show animals from other animals at the farm and watch for signs of illness. Do not allow nose-to-nose contact between these animals.
• Immediately consult a veterinarian if an animal becomes ill.
• Don't share supplies such as buckets, feed pans, etc. between isolated animals and other animals.
• All equipment should be thoroughly cleaned, disinfected and allowed to properly dry after use in the isolation area.
• Clean and disinfect equipment, vehicles/trailers, clothing, shoes, show boxes and its contents used at the show.

Other biosecurity measures that will be enforced include:

• Sick animals are not allowed on the fairgrounds.
• Influenza-susceptible species must be separated.
• All Lactating dairy cattle must have a negative HPAI test within ten days before arrival at the show.
• Dairy cattle from out of state must also have a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection.

For questions about biosecurity measures for dairy cattle, please contact the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries' State Veterinarian's office at (334) 240-7253.