FAKE NEWS: NCBA Debunks Cattle Disease Rumors, Warns of Market Impact When False Reports Circulate

NCBA President Colin Woodall states that misinformation like this is damaging to cattle producers, the beef supply chain, and consumer confidence

Aberdeen Angus Cattle Feeding in a Feedlot at Sunset

Angus cattle feeding in a feedlot at sunset

JavierAndrés - stock.adobe.com

NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) issued a warning about some fake news circulating regarding cattle herd health, which they say could cause chaos in the markets. Animal health officials at both the state and federal levels have confirmed that no disease is currently spreading.

Online rumors have begun circulating about a mysterious respiratory virus at a Texas feedlot.

NCBA stresses that these reports are false.

President Colin Woodall states that misinformation like this is damaging to cattle producers, the beef supply chain, and consumer confidence. The group urges everyone, from consumers to journalists, to rely on credible sources and verified information.

Read NCBA’s full statement on the rumors below:

“The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) is aware of online rumors that allege a new or unknown animal disease is circulating in a feedlot in the Texas Panhandle. These claims are false. Animal health officials from USDA, state officials in Texas, along with leaders at Texas Cattle Feeders Association, have confirmed there is no such disease present.

Spreading unverified information like this is not only irresponsible, it is harmful to cattle producers, the beef supply chain, and consumer confidence in a safe and wholesome product. Our industry depends on transparency, science-based animal health protocols, and strong collaboration with state and federal animal health authorities.

We encourage everyone—producers, media, and the public—to rely on credible sources and verified information. NCBA and state affiliate partners will continue working closely with animal health officials to monitor any legitimate concerns and ensure the continued health of the U.S. cattle herd.”

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA)
Related Stories
Cattle-on-Feed is down on the year in the USDA’s April report, with lower placements and marketings signaling tighter feedlot activity.
Kaleigh Backstrom says her early involvement in 4-H helped set her on that path and sparked her interest in veterinary medicine.
As data centers expand across Texas, experts and officials weigh economic benefits against concerns over farmland loss, water use, and impacts on agricultural land and rural communities.
Groundbreaking Marks Next Major Milestone in Strengthening U.S. New World Screwworm Preparedness
The 91st anniversary of Black Sunday highlights how the Dust Bowl disaster led to modern soil conservation programs still shaping U.S. agriculture today.
A new partnership with the Montana Beef Council is bringing protein-packed refuel stations to high school sports tournaments across the state.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Brandy Carroll with the Arkansas Farm Bureau shares an update on planting conditions and what producers are facing this season.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney explains shifting global trade dynamics and what they could mean for agriculture and energy markets.
Aris Georgiadis with Dairy Management Inc. joined us to discuss the “Dairy Does More” campaign and how it is working to boost demand for dairy.
While social media has labeled the possible event a “Godzilla El Niño,” experts say the intensity remains uncertain—but the signal for a stronger pattern is there.
Rising diesel and energy costs are squeezing farmers and rural communities, increasing production expenses and raising concerns about consumer demand for beef even as U.S. meat exports regain the Australian market.
Farmer John Jenkinson shares the latest on planting conditions in Kansas and what producers are facing this season.
Agriculture Shows
Hosted by Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady and RFD News Markets Specialist Tony St. James, Commodity Talk delivers expert insight into the day’s ag commodity markets just before the CME opens. Only on RFD-TV and Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147.
A look at the news, weather and commodities headlines that drove agriculture markets in the past week.
Everything profits from prairie. Soil, air, water — and all kinds of life! Learn how you can improve your land with prairie restoration, cover crops and prairie strips, while growing your bottom line.
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.