USDA Initiates Nationwide Milk Testing Due to Bird Flu Concerns

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has mandated nationwide testing of raw milk for bird flu, specifically the H5N1 strain, to protect dairy herds and prevent the virus's spread. This initiative aims to enhance safety for farmers and farmworkers and involves collecting milk samples from various dairy-related facilities. The testing will begin on December 16 in six states, with positive results requiring reporting and contact tracing. The move follows outbreaks affecting 718 dairy herds across 15 states, with some human cases reported among dairy and poultry workers.