Bovine TB case prompts quarantine of Manitoba dairy herd

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has confirmed a case of bovine tuberculosis in a cow originating from the Pembina Valley Region of Manitoba, prompting a quarantine of the infected herd and a wider investigation to prevent further spread.

The case was first detected on June 9, 2025, when CFIA’s Ottawa Laboratory Fallowfield identified the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex in tissue samples collected at a federally inspected slaughter facility in Manitoba. By June 13, the bacterium was confirmed to be Mycobacterium bovis, the pathogen responsible for bovine TB.

Although Canada has been officially free of bovine TB for decades, isolated cases in cattle can still occur. The disease is a federally reportable condition and subject to a national eradication program in place since 1923. The CFIA’s swift response highlights the ongoing vigilance of Canada’s animal health system.

Using data from DairyTrace, the CFIA traced the infected cow back to a Manitoba herd, which has since been placed under quarantine. The agency will work with the producer to determine a timeline for testing and, if necessary, humane depopulation. Movement restrictions are already in place, and the CFIA has initiated further laboratory testing to identify the specific strain of the mycobacterium.

Public health risk remains extremely low. Human cases of bovine TB are rare, and most exposure route — such as consumption of unpasteurized milk or extended close contact with infected animals — are not common. The CFIA emphasizes that pasteurized dairy products are safe, and that Canada’s surveillance and milk safety programs effectively minimize any risk to consumers.

Affected producers will be eligible for compensation for any animals destroyed as part of the investigation. Additional financial support may be available through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, which includes AgriInvest and AgriStability programs designed to help producers manage risks tied to disease outbreaks and other uncontrollable events.

The CFIA is working alongside provincial and federal partners, industry associations, and the impacted producer to manage the case and minimize disruptions. Continued cooperation is critical to protecting animal health and ensuring continued international market access for Canadian dairy and beef products.

Updates and detailed guidance for producers are available on the CFIA website.