ARKANSAS REGULATIONS FOR THE ADULT (Whole-Herd) VACCINATION OF BRUCELLOSIS INFECTED CATTLE HERDS
Every cattle herd in which Brucella abortus field strain infection has been confirmed, as determined by the designated epidemiologist(s); and, every herd that would be qualified for depopulation with indemnification, as determined by the Federal Veterinarian in Charge and the Arkansas State Veterinarian and the designated epidemiologist(s), fall under the jurisdiction of this regulation. (Factors to be considered in the qualification of a herd for federally funded depopulation are: the number of reactors disclosed on the first test; the persistence of reactors of subsequent tests; the danger of exposure to surrounding herds; other matters as considered by the regulatory officials, such as public health risk.)
All herd owner/manager(s) have three options in the management of their infected herds:
- Complete herd depopulation in compliance with state regulations. This option is contingent on the availability of state-federal funds for indemnification, and the qualification of the herd(s) (as described in the previous paragraph) to receive that indemnity.
- Adult (whole herd) vaccination of bovine females in their infected herd(s), with strict adherence to follow-up testing and quarantine releasing requirements consistent with state regulations and the Uniform Methods and Rules.
- S-brand and sell for slaughter or to a quarantined feedlot on a VS Form 1-27 all sexually intact animals within 30 days of the formulation of the herd plan. Bull and heifer calves may be neutered (castrated or spayed) in lieu of S-branding and selling them. (Verification of this must be made before the quarantine will be release.)
Whole herd vaccination does not disqualify the herd(s) for applying for depopulation funds, if it should be deemed appropriate later on. This regulation is being promulgated for the benefit and promotion of the Arkansas cattle industry, and for the expedition of the eradication of bovine brucellosis from the state. Any violation of this regulation will be considered under Act 150 of 1985 as a Class A misdemeanor, which, upon conviction, may be punishable by a fine of up to $1,000.00 and/or one (1) year in jail.
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