In 2024, the Minnesota State Fair Miracle of Birth Center will only display dry cows and their weaned calves.  This precaution is based on the prevalence of bovine influenza- H5N1. 

The decision was made in an abundance of caution and follows the advice of the Minnesota Extension Service and the College of Veterinary Medicine from presenting in-person lactating dairy cow exhibits.  Dr. Joe Armstrong, an extension veterinarian noted, “ milk has the most virus in it and that’s being carried and mechanically moved by people and equipment”.

The elemental question is really whether any bovine or caprine participation at all should take place in 2024. This approach is based on insufficient information on the modes of transmission of the virus or the range of mammalian species that are susceptible. Restricting lactating cows is an obvious precaution but may be inadequate to protect exhibited animals, their home farms, participants and the public. Policy decisions are justifiably based on apparent low risk accepting current knowledge but administrators must consider possible outcomes and their economic and public health consequences.