The state veterinarian says bovine tuberculosis, or TB, has been confirmed in a cow herd in Kingsbury County.
Dr. Beth Thompson said the infected herd was identified through traceback efforts on a Hamlin County feedlot steer.
Meat inspectors initially discovered the infected steer during routine inspections at a Wisconsin packing plant in late October.
Thompson said they’re working closely with the herd owner, USDA and state Animal Industry Board to trace other infected animals and protect the health of the state’s cattle industry.
Officials said Bovine TB is not currently a threat to food safety in the U.S, due to milk pasteurization and comprehensive meat inspection programs.
Bovine TB is a chronic, slowly progressive respiratory disease of cattle. Infected animals may transmit infection to other animals when in close proximity for prolonged periods. Cattle rarely exhibit visible signs of illness. Testing of cattle herds is necessary to determine if animals are infected.
The U.S. has nearly eliminated bovine TB and South Dakota has officially been recognized as free of the disease since 1982.