Bird flu has been reported to be infecting dairy cows in California, expanding the outbreak across the country

• Avian Flu Spreads Across the US
• Authorities Expect More Infections in Cows
• What Measures Have Been Taken?

The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) confirmed on Friday that cows from three dairy farms in the state have tested positive for avian flu.

This development extends the H5N1 virus outbreak to a fourteenth U.S. state, as reported by Reuters.

This news has raised alarms within the dairy industry and heightened concerns about the potential spread of the virus to humans.

California, known as the largest milk producer in the United States, is facing an unusual and worrying situation.

AVIAN FLU SPREADS ACROSS THE US

According to the CDFA’s statement, the infected cows, located in the Central Valley region, began showing symptoms on August 25.

This outbreak not only marks a significant expansion of avian flu into dairy cattle but also highlights the complexity of the challenges facing the dairy industry in the country.

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The H5N1 virus, known primarily for affecting birds, has shown the ability to infect other animals, such as mammals.

The detection of avian flu in dairy cows underscores the adaptability of the virus and raises questions about its possible transmission to other animals and, eventually, to humans.

What Happened to the Milk from California’s Cows?

However, federal authorities assure that the risk to the general public remains low.

They have also emphasized that pasteurization of milk eliminates the virus, ensuring that the milk supply remains safe for consumption.

Since March, the H5N1 virus has affected more than 190 herds nationwide, including 13 workers at dairy and poultry farms.

This expansion of the virus has led to increased surveillance and efforts to contain the outbreak.

What Is Being Done with the Livestock Infected with the Avian Flu Virus?

Authorities have quarantined the infected dairies in California, and staff are treating and isolating the sick cows within the farms.

Healthy cows have been cleared to continue producing milk, which is still being processed safely for consumption, according to Reuters.

Karen Ross, California’s Secretary of Agriculture, expressed the concerns of dairy producers:

«This is a challenging time for our dairy producers given the economic difficulties they face. We are addressing this incident with the utmost urgency,» she concluded.

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