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
A high-stakes legal case in a South Dakota federal court concerning misleading country-of-origin labeling (MCOOL), such as “Product of the USA,” on food products, will significantly impact U.S. agricultural policy for years to come.
Agronomy experts explain why standing crop residue protects soil and reduces costs for crop growers, while shredding often yields little benefit at higher costs.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller today unveiled a bold plan to protect the nation’s prime farm and ranchland from the rapid spread of data centers.
Secretary Rollins also met with specialty crop producers at a local strawberry farm to discuss workforce needs and the Trump Administration’s recent wins related to significantly cutting the cost of H-2A labor for California farmers.
Brent Graves, auctioneer and mentor, shares his journey supporting youth in agriculture, livestock competitions, and how he is turning junior livestock auctions into a classroom for youth in agriculture.
China’s beef policy risk stems from domestic volatility, making export demand inherently unstable. Jake Charleston with Specialty Risk Insurance offers his perspective on cattle markets, risk management, and producer sentiment.

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:

Farm CPA Paul Neiffer joined us to break down the recent Fifth Circuit Court decision overturning a prior Tax Court decision on self-employment tax for limited partners, the ruling’s impact on farmers, and potential next steps in Congress.
Americans for Prosperity Arkansas Director Ryan Norris talks energy infrastructure, regulatory reform, and the role of critical minerals in supporting rural America.
Pennsylvania Farm Show scholarship recipient Elizabeth Dice discusses her award, her background in farming, and her path forward in the agriculture industry.
Mike Steenhoek with the Soy Transportation Coalition discusses supply chain challenges facing agriculture as snow, sleet and ice threaten most of the Eastern U.S.
Congressman Adrian Smith of Nebraska joined us with the latest on efforts to secure year-round E15 sales.
Brian Earnest, an animal protein economist with CoBank, shares insights into current demand trends and the challenges facing broiler production.
Agriculture Shows
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.
Champions of Rural America is a half-hour dive into the legislative priorities for Rural America. Join us as we interview members of the Congressional Western Caucus to learn about efforts in Washington to preserve agriculture and tackles the most important topics in the ag industry on Champions of Rural America!
Featuring members of Congress, federal and state officials, ag and food leaders, farmers, and roundtable panelists for debates and discussions.