Federal and state officials have confirmed the detection of bird flu in milk and nasal swab samples from ailing cattle on dairy farms in Texas and Kansas.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced swift actions to conduct further testing for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) after confirming positive cases on at least two dairy farms in each state.
Cattle displaying flu-like symptoms and producing discolored milk have raised concerns, with federal officials attributing the infection to wild migratory birds. This revelation follows Minnesota’s recent report of avian flu infection in a juvenile goat residing on a farm with infected poultry.
Despite the detections, officials assure minimal risk to human food safety and milk supply, with contaminated milk being diverted or disposed of. Emphasizing the importance of pasteurization, which eliminates pathogens, they reassure consumers that infected milk poses no threat if properly treated.
However, unpasteurized milk samples testing positive for bird flu underline the necessity of caution. Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller affirmed no contaminated milk entering the food chain, thanks to stringent measures.
Authorities advocate against consuming raw milk due to associated health risks and urge compliance with state regulations governing its sale and labeling. While losses in milk production are noted, they’re unlikely to disrupt supply or inflate prices significantly.
Investigations primarily focus on older cows in Texas, Kansas, and New Mexico, with Iowa closely monitoring the situation. Unlike poultry outbreaks, officials believe mammalian infections won’t necessitate mass culling, citing limited transmission risks.
Brian Hoefs of the Minnesota Board of Animal Health emphasizes the importance of vigilance, noting the potential for cross-species transmission. Nonetheless, reassurances abound, with affected cattle expected to recover fully without the need for drastic measures.
