World Dairy Expo 2026 Tightens Cattle Biosecurity as HPAI Testing Rules Continue

World Dairy Expo returns to Madison, Wisconsin with animal health and biosecurity playing a central role as dairy cattle arrive from across the United States and international visitors gather for the industry event.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza continues to be detected on U.S. dairy farms, so federal movement requirements remain relevant for cattle attending the 2026 Expo. Wisconsin agriculture officials have published specific guidance for exhibitors based on the National Milk Testing Strategy status of the state from which cattle originate.

Lactating dairy cattle coming from states classified as Affected or Provisionally Unaffected must have a negative influenza A PCR test with a sample collected no more than seven days before movement. Cattle from states with Unaffected status can move interstate without individual cow testing under federal guidance updated in April.

Animals from herds that have tested positive for influenza A are not eligible for interstate movement for 30 days after a positive herd test. Wisconsin also recommends limiting dairy cattle movement to essential trips while the disease remains a concern.

The rules make biosecurity an operational issue for exhibitors rather than simply an event policy. Testing windows, state status and return movement requirements can affect when cattle travel and whether additional testing is needed after the show.

World Dairy Expo is one of the dairy industry's major international gatherings, bringing genetics, equipment, farm management and cattle competition into the same event. In 2026, disease prevention is also part of the logistics required to bring that global dairy community together.