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Pallavi Mehra • 26 Nov 2024
Is Your Milk Contaminated? Bird Flu Found In California's Raw Milk
Is Your Milk Contaminated? Bird Flu Found In California's Raw Milk (Image Credits: iStock)
Bird flu has been detected in raw milk sold in California, sparking concerns over the virus's spread, state health officials announced. The affected product, a batch of cream-top, whole raw milk from Raw Farm in Fresno, had a "best by" date of November 27. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) confirmed the finding in a press release, urging consumers to avoid purchasing or consuming the milk.
The virus was discovered during routine testing by the Santa Clara County Public Health Laboratory, which examines raw milk samples to protect consumers. The positive result was later verified by the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System. While no illnesses have been linked to this batch, health authorities are increasing surveillance. The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) has begun testing raw milk banks twice weekly, even though further testing at Raw Farm locations yielded negative results.
Health experts have consistently warned against consuming raw milk due to its risks. Unlike pasteurized milk, raw milk is not heated to kill harmful bacteria, increasing the likelihood of foodborne illnesses. “Outbreaks from pathogens like Salmonella, Listeria, E. coli, and Campylobacter have been linked to raw dairy products,” the CDPH emphasized. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also highlighted that pasteurization significantly reduced milk-borne illnesses since the early 1900s.
The discovery comes amid a broader bird flu crisis. California recently reported its first case of bird flu in a child, marking the first such instance in a U.S. minor. To date, 35 human bird flu infections have been recorded in the United States, with 29 cases occurring in California. The virus has predominantly affected poultry and wild birds, leading to the deaths of at least 280 million birds globally since 2021.
Earlier this year, the virus spread to U.S. dairy cattle, with most cases occurring in California. Of the 616 infected herds, 402 were in the state. Additionally, eight out of 115 dairy workers exposed to infected cattle contracted the flu, a significantly high rate.
For humans, bird flu symptoms range from headache and fever to severe complications, including eye irritation and respiratory distress. In vulnerable populations, such as children and the elderly, the infection can be fatal.
Public health officials strongly advise consuming only pasteurized dairy products to minimize health risks. “The pasteurization process has been critical in preventing milk-borne outbreaks,” the CDC reiterated. Consumers are urged to heed these warnings to ensure their safety as surveillance efforts continue.
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