(Geralyn Wichers photo)

Bovine flu a reminder of risk management in markets 

While recent price drops have limited options, cow-calf producers can still lock in a profit, says market analyst 

The fundamentals still look strong for cattle prices, despite recent hiccups in the futures market, says a market analyst, but for those buying stockers, a little risk management can go a long way.




(HLS.ca/virden)

Flu outbreak sees buyers balk at beef futures

Cash prices fairly level; beef producers should look into risk management tools, analysts say

Markets have seen cattle futures (mainly live and fed) decline in recent weeks as the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) strain made its way into dairy herds in six states to date. The good news, said a cattle auction leader and market expert, is that cash prices have remained more-or-less steady amid the chaos.

FILE PHOTO: Test tubes labelled “Bird Flu” and eggs are seen in this picture illustration, January 14, 2023. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo

U.S. cattle vets rename bovine bird-flu

CDC asks state health authorities to have plans in place to test, treat farm workers; says risk to humans still low

An organization representing American cattle veterinarians has opted to refer to bird flu in cattle as bovine influenza A virus, or BIAV, in hopes of distancing it from its avian counterpart.