Milk supply deemed safe after cow deaths

The Department of Health has approved the milk at Harry Kromer’s Spittal Pond farm safe for public consumption after three imported cows died there in early June.

The Bermuda Sun reported on the cows’ arrival and subsequent illness at the time.

The Department of Health received notification in early June from the Government Veterinary Officer that five recently imported cows had become ill at a local farm, and eventually three of those animals died. Through the work of the on-farm veterinarian and laboratory facilities of the Department of Health and KEMH, Salmonella was implicated as the causative agent. As cows within the affected group began to calve, milk produced at this farm was withheld from public consumption until the milk was proven to be safe. 

We are happy to report that the two recovered cows returned to good health and together with the remainder of the herd have been clinically ‘normal’ for the past six weeks. Testing has ruled out other causative agents of the illness, and most importantly, has confirmed the suitability of the milk for public consumption. Thus the Department of Health has approved this milk to enter the public supply. Monitoring of the cows' health and the safety of the milk will continue to detect any change in the current situation, although no change is anticipated.

The Department of Health thanks all those who have worked with the Department to ensure the safety of the public, including the farm operator, manager and employees, the on-farm veterinarian, Dr. Dane Coombs and officers of the Department of Environmental Protection.