Was it debris or disease? TAHC continues testing on deer, cattle

From Staff Reports

February 20, 2003 -- The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) is running tests to determine if debris from space shuttle Columbia made three cows and two captive deer in Cherokee County ill.

The animals are being held under movement restriction by the TAHC. The illness includes swollen tongues and heads and stiff necks.

Veterinarians from the TAHC, the state's regulatory agency for livestock and poultry health, and a veterinarian from NASA, are examining the animals.

''Debris from the Columbia space shuttle was found on the captive deer premise, and we want to learn if the animal might have licked it or come into close contact with a chemical residue from the pieces,'' said Dr. James Lenarduzzi, acting executive director for the TAHC.

He said they don't know if there is a link between the animals' illness and the shuttle debris.

TAHC spokeswoman Carla Everett said the illnesses were reported on Feb. 7. One cow died and another had to be put down. Tissue from the cows is being tested.

Everett added early reports show the deer do not have rabies but they are suffering from pneumonia. Both are improving.

Lenarduzzi urged livestock owners to work with their private veterinary practitioners if their animals become ill.

He reminded producers and veterinarians that the TAHC operates a 24-hour hotline for reporting unusual signs of illness or unexpected death losses in livestock and poultry.

To make a report, call the TAHC at 1-800-550-8242 or contact your local veterinarian.