In a recent meeting of the Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee, critical discussions centered on the health of South Carolina's dairy and poultry industries, particularly in light of recent viral outbreaks affecting livestock. The meeting, held on April 24, 2025, highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by dairy farmers, including the impact of a virus that can significantly reduce milk production in infected cattle.

Experts noted that when the virus infects a dairy farm, it can affect 10 to 20 percent of the herd, leading to observable drops in milk output and symptoms such as fever in the animals. The importance of pasteurization was emphasized, as it effectively kills the virus, ensuring that pasteurized milk remains safe for consumption. However, concerns were raised regarding unpasteurized raw milk, with ongoing studies indicating that the virus may remain viable in certain cheese products for extended periods. The committee acknowledged the need for further research to understand the potential risks to human health from consuming raw milk.

The meeting also addressed the poultry sector, which plays a significant role in South Carolina's economy. The state ranks highly in national poultry production, with substantial contributions from broiler, egg, and turkey farming. Despite the robust industry, there have been recent cases of viral infections in backyard flocks, which could jeopardize international trade if not managed properly. The committee discussed the importance of monitoring and controlling these outbreaks to prevent trade embargoes that could arise from positive cases.

Additionally, the committee explored the potential for vaccination strategies against these viral threats. While vaccines could help prevent disease, there are concerns about their economic feasibility and the possibility of vaccines masking infections rather than eradicating them. The discussions underscored the delicate balance between maintaining livestock health and ensuring the economic viability of the agricultural sector.

As the meeting concluded, the committee recognized the need for continued vigilance and research to protect both the health of livestock and the economic interests of South Carolina's agricultural community. The implications of these discussions are significant, as they not only affect farmers but also have broader consequences for food safety and international trade relations.