The southern United States has been rocked by an unprecedented event: Cows at a Texas dairy farm have tested positive for the avian influenza virus, according to local authorities.
Sid Miller, director of the Texas Department of Agriculture, described the situation as an “unprecedented event” and warned that more cases could emerge in the coming days.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) strains have been found in raw milk samples from a Texas farm and in production at two other dairy plants in Kansas. While the findings are concerning, Miller assured that the outbreak is not currently expected to threaten the country’s commercial dairy supply.
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Notably, avian influenza viruses detected in cattle have not been transmitted to humans so far. The USDA Veterinary Laboratory has not found any changes in the virus that would make it more likely to spread to humans, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture.
Although the risk to the public is low, additional epidemiological investigations are ongoing to fully assess the situation and ensure food safety.
The pasteurization process of milk inactivates viruses, so contaminated milk is not expected to enter the food chain.
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The USDA is investigating the situation, with cases primarily found in older dairy cows in Texas, Kansas and New Mexico. Although cases of bird flu have been confirmed in Texas and Kansas, authorities are working to contain the spread and ensure the safety of animals and consumers.
Source: Deutsche Welle.