“All Things Dairy” Call About Prepping for Fair Season, HPAI and More

Recap from July 9 Call:

• Based on assessment of risk within the state, as well as regionally and nationally, and with all milk samples testing negative for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) to date, Pennsylvania will be scaling back the Mandatory Milk Influenza Testing program to monthly rather than every 14 days. This is currently in effect and was published on July 12. The PA Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Animal Health and Diagnostic Services, is requesting that samples continue to be sent throughout the month rather than all at the beginning or end of the month. As of July 9, there have been over 25,000 milk samples tested, which represents 91,000 individual farm data points.
• In the last 30 days and across the U.S., Arizona reported one case of HPAI in cattle. Prior to that, California, Idaho, and Nevada were the only other states that recently have been impacted by HPAI in their dairy herds. Pennsylvania was the third state to reach the stage-4 disease-free status.
• Recently, Pennsylvania did have a positive case of HPAI in a game bird farm in southern Lancaster County. A control area is in place, and any dairy farm within a 3km radius of the affected flock is required to be sampled.
• For Pennsylvania cattle who are traveling to fairs and shows within the state, exhibitors must show verification of a veterinary-client-patient relationship, such as a signed certificate of veterinary inspection (preferred method), a VCPR form, or a signed attestation on an entry form. All animals must be free of any signs of infectious or contagious diseases. All cattle are required to have official identification. Out-of-state cattle must meet all import requirements, including a current CVI and be tested for HPAI (if lactating). Click here to see Dr. Luley’s slides for more information, or click here to see Pennsylvania’s 2025 Animal Health Requirements for Animal Exhibitions.
• Practicing good biosecurity measures at fairs and exhibitions can help mitigate the risk of spreading illnesses and diseases. Animals can spread disease through direct contact, equipment sharing, and even through the air. People can also spread disease via their hands, clothing, and footwear. With so many animals from multiple places being in close quarters at shows, it can increase the chance of exposure to certain illnesses.
• The PA Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Animal Health and Diagnostic Services advises frequently cleaning and disinfecting equipment and animal areas, ensuring adequate ventilation, and frequent handwashing. Exhibitors should practice good biosecurity practices everywhere, including but not limited to the show arena, wash racks, stalls, and loading/unloading areas. Click here to see the PDA’s guidelines for keeping your animals safe during this show season.
• Beth Meyer from American Dairy Association North East provided insight on interacting with the public at shows, fairs, and other events for dairy farmers that is available in their Customized Communications Coaching program. She highlighted the importance of being prepared, using tested messages, and engaging with the public in a way that builds trust and clarity.
• Communication isn’t just about saying what you think. It’s about making sure others understand what you mean. Clear, respectful, and relatable language is key, especially when answering common or seemingly “silly” questions from consumers.
• Always treat questions as opportunities to connect, not challenges to defend. Even questions like “Do brown cows give chocolate milk?” should be answered with patience, humor, and useful information. Avoid dismissive or sarcastic replies that could shut down conversation. Use words that resonate and avoid ones that confuse or create emotional misunderstandings. For example:
  • Say “comfortable” instead of “happy” to describe animals.
  • Use “cow and calf” instead of “mother and baby.”
  • Refer to “farmers” and “family farms” rather than “producers” or “operations” to promote a more human, relatable image.
• Keep explanations simple, avoid industry jargon unless explained, and tailor your message to the audience’s level of understanding. Answer questions clearly and briefly, then pause to let follow-up questions come naturally.
• For more information on ADANE’s “Customized Communications Coaching” resources, click here. You can view their handout with tips and advice tailored specifically for fair and exhibitions.

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