Study Finds Low-Level Livestock Virus Risk in New York

Researchers identified viral antibodies in New York cattle and sheep, highlighting potential future herd risks.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Diseases — General

A weathered wooden fence crosses a green pasture leading toward rolling hills under a cloudy, overcast sky. — A Cornell University study identified antibodies for the epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus in 31 cattle and three sheep across New York. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Is your local agricultural community prepared for a potential livestock disease outbreak?

A Cornell study published on September 28, 2026, found evidence of exposure to the epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus in New York livestock. The findings suggest that local cattle and sheep populations maintain low levels of immunity to the midge-borne virus.

Why it matters

Understanding current antibody levels helps researchers assess the risk of potential viral outbreaks across New York livestock. Biting midge activity often increases during hotter, drier summers, which can expand the virus's reach beyond typical endemic regions.

A Cornell study tested 5,698 samples from New York cattle, sheep, and goats, identifying antibodies for the epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus in 34 samples, or 0.6% of the total. While the presence of antibodies is confirmed, the implications for future herd vulnerability are still under investigation.

The players

Cornell's Animal Health Diagnostic Center

A facility that provides diagnostic services and conducts research on animal health and diseases.

The details

The epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus is transmitted by biting midges, which thrive in the shallow water and exposed mud found during hot, dry summer months. Researchers at Cornell's Animal Health Diagnostic Center screened samples originally submitted for other purposes to track viral exposure. The results showed antibodies in 31 cattle and three sheep, while none of the goat samples tested positive.

2021: New York experienced a major outbreak of the virus.
September 28, 2026: Research findings were published in Transboundary and Emerging Diseases.

Health Landscape

This study provides a baseline for tracking how the virus persists in New York after the severe 2021 outbreak that caused 1,500 to 2,100 white-tailed deer deaths. It situates current livestock exposure levels within the broader context of viral transmission patterns in northern states.

While this study focuses on livestock rather than human health, New York residents managing livestock should monitor environmental conditions that support midge populations. Questions about protecting herd health during warmer, drier seasons are worth discussing with a large-animal veterinarian.

The takeaway

The presence of antibodies in New York livestock indicates that the epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus has circulated locally at low levels. Livestock owners should keep a watchful eye on seasonal midge activity and maintain regular communication with a veterinarian regarding animal health precautions.