U.S. authorities have confirmed the presence of avian influenza virus in cows across the U.S. Texas, Kansas and New Mexicoaccording to a statement released by the agency United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) last Monday.The virus identified is a strain H5N1 Type Aknown for its effects on birds and occasional infections in humans.
The USDA reported unpasteurized milk samples collected from two dairy farms in Kansas and one dairy farm in Texas, as well as oropharyngeal swabs from another dairy farm in Texas. , the test result was positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza. Although the presence of the virus has been confirmed, authorities believe the risk to humans is low.
Cows in Texas and Kansas have tested positive for bird flu, but milk supplies remain safe, officials said. The agency believes the infection may have been caused by wild birds. However, no changes in the virus have been found that would indicate increased transmissibility to humans.
The USDA emphasizes that only milk from healthy animals enters the food supply, while milk from sick animals is diverted or destroyed. Additionally, the pasteurization process required for milk intended for interstate commerce eliminates viruses and other bacteria, ensuring food safety.
These findings are based on the authorities Minnesota The virus was reportedly detected in goats on a farm affected by an outbreak of avian influenza in poultry. In Texas, concern was raised three weeks ago when cattle began showing symptoms of what was called a “mystery cow disease,” affecting milk production and the animals’ health.
Despite initial concerns, experts note that livestock appear to recover on their own within 7 to 10 days, unlike outbreaks of avian influenza in poultry, which typically require removal of affected flocks.from 2022previous outbreaks have resulted in approx. 80 million Number of birds in commercial chicken flocks in the United States. @mundiario
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