Pregnant cow in southwestern Minnesota tests positive for rabies

A pregnant cow recently tested positive for rabies in southwestern Minnesota.

The Minnesota Board of Animal Health (MBAH) said the cow in Rock County underwent virus testing on March 20 after a local veterinarian suspected the animal was infected.

Six days earlier, the farmer contacted the veterinarian after seeing one of his late-term pregnant cows "appeared to be acting abnormally and thought she might birth her calf or have bowel discomfort."

After a veterinarian examined the cow and provided treatment for possible intestinal blockage, the cow didn't show signs of improvement and was seen favoring one side while walking away.

On March 18, the cow was unable to stand, as "paralysis and other neurological signs of rabies had progressed," according to the state agency.

The cow was euthanized that same day.

The positive rabies case was the third confirmed in cattle in Minnesota since March 2023.

The state agency investigated a possible exposure to other animals within the 30-strong herd on the farm. According to MBAH, rabies in cows is uncommon, but the virus is able to spread through herds via saliva contact.

Just prior to the cow showing signs of the virus, a skunk had been killed on the property.

"Since skunks pose a threat for spreading the virus in Minnesota, all remaining animals on the farm will be observed," the MBAH said.

Aside from the veterinarian, who received post-exposure treatment (PEP) due to direct contact with the cow, no other people were exposed.

For more information on rabies in animals and to see a map of positive cases in the state, click here .

If you have any questions ro concerns regarding pet and livestock exposure, contact the board at 651-201-6808, or the Minnesota Department of Health at 651-201-5414 regarding human exposure.