March 28, 2024

Bird flu detected in dairy cattle milk in Texas and Kansas, US

US officials confirmed that milk from dairy cattle in Texas and Kansas has tested positive for bird flu, raising concerns about the spread of the virus in livestock, Associated Press reported.

The Texas Animal Health Commission verified that the flu virus identified is the Type A H5N1 strain, which has a history of causing outbreaks in birds and sporadically infecting humans.

Affected dairy cattle in these states, as well as in New Mexico, are experiencing decreased lactation and reduced appetite due to the virus.

This revelation follows last week's announcement from Minnesota officials, who reported that goats on a farm where bird flu had previously affected poultry tested positive for the virus. It marks the first instance of bird flu being detected in US livestock.

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) assured the public that the commercial milk supply remains safe, with low risk to consumers.

Dairy farms are mandated to only permit milk from healthy animals into the food chain, and milk from infected animals is being either diverted or disposed of. Furthermore, pasteurisation, a standard process for milk sold across state lines, effectively eliminates viruses and bacteria.

-      Associated Press