Animal Diseases

Reportable Diseases

Veterinarians are legally required to report suspected cases of certain diseases to either the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection or the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Some of these are foreign animal diseases that we have never had in the United States, such as H5N1, the dangerous strain of avian influenza that's been found in Asia, Europe and Africa, or that we previously eradicated, like foot-and-mouth disease. Others are diseases that we are attempting to eradicate, such as pseudorabies and bovine tuberculosis.

When veterinarians report these diseases, a state or federal veterinarian will investigate and, if necessary, submit samples to either the U.S. Veterinary Laboratory in Ames, Iowa, or to Plum Island Research Center in New York (for suspected foreign animal diseases). Until test results are available, the premises are likely to be quarantined.

How to Report Diseases
Contact information for reporting suspected animal diseases.

Diseases To Be Reported Within One Day
Many diseases must be reported within one day after finding evidence. Among others, they include rabies, tuberculosis, and bluetongue.

Diseases to be Reported Within Ten Days
Cattle, swine, horse, fish, and other diseases must be reported within ten days after finding evidence.

Chapter ATCP 10 - Animal Diseases
The administrative rule on animal disease.