University of Minnesota Report: H5N1 Dairy Cow Study Finds Sustained Milk Production Drop, Extensive Transmission Across Herd

Mar 21, 2025

By Lisa Schnirring

Scientists who examined the impact of an H5N1 avian flu outbreak in an Ohio dairy herd that had about 3,900 cows found a milk production drop in clinically affected cows that lasted 60 days and extensive asymptomatic infections in other cows. The team, led by researchers at Cornell University, published their findings as a preprint study in Nature Portfolio.

The first illness in the herd was noted about 2 weeks after apparently healthy lactating cows from Texas were introduced into the herd. Decreased rumination and a decline in milk production appeared to decline about 5 days before clinical diagnosis.

Source : umaine.edu

Video: Shearing Delay Leads To Kingston 4H Sheep Show!

What started as a disappointment turned into a day full of surprises, fun, and celebration as we leave Ewetopia Farms behind and head out to the Kingston Fair to watch the 4H sheep show

Today’s vlog was supposed to be another sheep shearing day here at Ewetopia Farms, but when our shearer had to cancel, we suddenly found ourselves with an unexpected free day. Lucky for us, the Kingston Fair was happening — and some of our own sheep (and friends) were competing!

We brought along our shearing helper and headed to the fairgrounds to cheer on the 4H kids and see how our sheep did in the show. From last-minute preparations and sheep showmanship to market lamb competitions and ewe classes, we take you behind the scenes of what it’s really like at a country fair.

We couldn’t be prouder — our girls walked away with wins in both showmanship and breeding ewe classes! Afterwards, we toured the fair, met a beekeeper with fascinating insights, admired other livestock shows, and wrapped up the evening with motocross stunts and a demolition derby!

Sometimes farm life throws curveballs — but today, it gave us the chance to celebrate community, our sheep, and the next generation of shepherds.