Wisconsin agriculture officials warn of cattle disease

MADISON, Wis. — Agriculture officials are warning farmers to be on the lookout for signs of a cattle disease that can cause fever and lameness after two cases were found in Wisconsin.

The Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection says epizootic hemorrhagic disease, or EHD, is unlikely to kill cattle. But its symptoms include fever, ulcers in the mouth, a swollen tongue, excessive salivation, and lameness or stiffness when walking.

Dr. Paul McGraw, the state veterinarian, said in a statement Thursday that the disease remains a threat until a hard freeze kills the insects that spread the virus. EHD does not infect humans.

One concern is that EHD’s symptoms are similar to foot-and-mouth disease, so officials want to make sure animals are tested to rule out the more serious illness.