An outbreak of bird flu in U.S. dairy cows has impacted over two dozen herds in eight states, following the recent discovery of the virus in chickens by the nation's largest egg producer. Despite this concerning development, health officials emphasize that the risk to the public is low, and the U.S. food supply remains safe and stable.
States Affected by Bird Flu in Dairy Cows
The bird flu strain, Type A H5N1, has been detected in 26 dairy herds across Idaho, Kansas, Michigan, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, and South Dakota. While the virus has been found in various mammals previously, this marks the first instance of its presence in cattle.
Impact on Food Production
Agricultural authorities in 17 states have restricted dairy cattle imports from affected states. However, commercial milk production has not been significantly affected. Infected cows are being isolated, and those showing symptoms are being tested and monitored closely.
Food Safety Measures
Pasteurization effectively eliminates the bird flu virus, ensuring that grocery store milk is safe for consumption. Raw milk poses a potential risk, as there is limited information on the transmission of H5N1 in unpasteurized products. Health officials recommend caution regarding raw milk consumption.
Eggs and Meat Safety
Only dairy cows have shown signs of infection, not beef cattle. The largest egg producer in the U.S. culled millions of chickens after detecting bird flu, but assured the public that eggs in the market are safe when handled and cooked properly.
While the situation continues to evolve, experts stress the importance of thorough cooking and proper food handling practices to mitigate any potential risks associated with bird flu.
