At a recent meeting, the State Board of Animal Health (BOAH) decided to extend a waiver concerning brucellosis vaccination for heifers. Initially issued at a special meeting in February, the rule allows for the age of vaccination to be increased from 12 months to 14 months.
State Veterinarian Dr. Ethan Andress addressed ongoing issues related to vaccine availability, stating, “The shortage of brucellosis vaccine continues to be a challenge for many vet clinics.” He indicated that further discussions on addressing this issue will take place at the board’s next regular meeting.
Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring provided reassurance regarding animal health risks. “After revisiting all available information, the board determined that the extension presents negligible risk to animal health in North Dakota,” he said.
The board plans to review this extended waiver again during its upcoming meeting scheduled for June 11, 2025.
