Rumors of a so-called “mystery” respiratory virus circulating in Texas Panhandle feedlots spread rapidly online Tuesday, prompting swift responses from state and national animal health officials. According to the Texas Animal Health Commission and Texas Cattle Feeders Association, those claims are unfounded.
Dr. Bud Dinges, TAHC executive director and state veterinarian, emphasized that multiple agencies have verified there is no unknown disease impacting cattle in the region.
“Texas animal health officials have confirmed with Amarillo region staff and partners at U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal Plant and Health Inspection, Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory and Texas Cattle Feeders Association that no reports of cattle with an ‘unknown’ respiratory virus in the Texas Panhandle have been received and no regulatory action is being taken at this time.”
The rumors, which appeared to originate from online reports and social media posts, suggested a fast-spreading and potentially devastating feedlot disease. Some claims even projected significant impacts to cattle health and beef markets, sparking concern among producers and consumers alike.
However, industry organizations were quick to respond.
In a March 17 social media statement, TCFA pushed back strongly against the misinformation: “The false information being reported by a foreign country regarding a mysterious virus in cattle in Texas is completely inaccurate and untrue. USDA-APHIS and Texas...
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