All articles tagged with #dairy cattle
Scientists are investigating how H5N1 avian flu spreads in dairy farms, with recent findings highlighting the roles of house flies in mechanical virus transfer and a potential route of infection through mouth-to-teat contact, which may explain initial mammary gland infections. Despite low detection levels in the US, ongoing research aims to better understand and control the virus's spread among animals and farms.
The CDC reported that a child in California was diagnosed with bird flu linked to a virus strain spreading among dairy cattle, despite no direct exposure to livestock. This finding adds to the mystery of the H5N1 bird flu's transmission, a virus closely monitored for its pandemic potential.
Scientists are increasingly concerned about a new strain of bird flu that has spread to dairy cattle in the U.S., infecting over 600 herds across multiple states. The virus, primarily transmitted through milk, poses a significant challenge to control, with more than 50 known human infections reported. Experts warn of the potential for the virus to evolve and become more transmissible to humans, especially if it combines with seasonal flu, raising fears of a new pandemic. Enhanced testing and monitoring are crucial to understanding and managing the outbreak.
Iowa has reported its first case of bird flu in dairy cattle at an O'Brien County farm, adding to similar cases in other states. The infected herd of 4,500 cows will not be euthanized, as dairy cattle can recover with proper care. The Iowa Department of Agriculture is preparing additional response steps to protect livestock, while the USDA assures that pasteurized dairy products remain safe for consumption. The CDC maintains that the threat to the general public is low.
Scientists are struggling to understand the H5N1 bird flu outbreak affecting dairy cattle in the U.S. due to farmers' reluctance to allow research on their farms. Key questions include how the virus spreads among cows, its impact on farmworkers, and the potential for the virus to adapt to mammals. The lack of data is reminiscent of early Covid-19 information gaps, and experts stress the urgency of containing the outbreak to prevent long-term health risks.
The U.S. is preparing 4.8 million doses of bird flu vaccine in response to a growing outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) linked to dairy cattle. The CDC is investigating human cases, and the vaccines, produced by CSL Seqirus, are expected to be ready by late summer. However, regulatory approval is still needed before use. The CDC currently assesses the risk to the general public as low but has warned that workers in dairy farms are at higher risk.
The US has reported its third human case of bird flu, linked to an outbreak in dairy cattle. A Michigan farm worker exhibited typical flu symptoms and was treated with antiviral medication. The CDC emphasized that the virus spread from cows to humans, not human-to-human, and the risk to the general public remains low. The worker was not wearing recommended protective equipment, highlighting the importance of PPE for those in close contact with dairy herds.
A third person in the US has tested positive for H5 bird flu, linked to an outbreak in dairy cattle in Michigan. This is the second case in the state and the fourth in the US. The infected farmworker exhibited respiratory symptoms, which experts say do not indicate increased human-to-human transmission risk. The CDC and Michigan health officials emphasize the importance of personal protective equipment for dairy workers and continue to monitor and test exposed individuals. The general public's risk remains low, but the situation underscores the need for vigilance among those working with infected animals.
The CDC has reported the first known cases of presumed cow-to-human transmission of highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus in the U.S., involving two dairy farm workers. Approximately 350 exposed farm workers are being monitored, and the current risk to the general public is considered low. However, individuals exposed to infected animals or raw cow's milk are at higher risk and should take precautions. A coordinated One Health approach is being used to manage and prepare for potential public health risks.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine indicates that drinking raw milk containing H5N1 avian flu viruses can be dangerous, as evidenced by severe illness in mice fed infected milk. While the study cannot ethically be replicated in humans, experts warn of the probable risk. The FDA has long advised against consuming raw milk due to various pathogens, and this advice is reiterated amid the current H5N1 outbreak in dairy cattle.
The USDA detected bird flu virus particles in tissue samples from one dairy cow at a U.S. meat processing plant, but none in 95 other cattle. The meat was kept out of the food supply, and increased testing is underway as bird flu spreads in dairy cattle. Two dairy workers have tested positive, and the USDA confirms bird flu in 58 herds across nine states. The FDA found viral particles in pasteurized milk but no live virus.
The recent infection of a farmworker in Texas with bird flu, transmitted by a cow, has raised concerns as the highly pathogenic H5N1 virus has been found on dairy cattle farms in several states. While the virus has previously affected various animal species worldwide, including polar bears and penguins, its transmission to cows is a surprising development. Although the risk of human infection remains low, scientists are monitoring the situation closely for potential mutations that could increase the virus's ability to infect humans. Surveillance and preparedness measures are in place, and the CDC advises being aware but not alarmed, with precautions recommended for handling birds and consuming animal products.
The Maryland Department of Agriculture is restricting the movement of dairy cattle into local farms due to an outbreak of Avian Flu in seven states, aiming to protect local cattle from the illness that can reduce milk production. The state is implementing additional testing and emphasizing the importance of biosecurity measures for farmers to prevent the spread of the disease, which is primarily carried by wild birds. While it is rare for humans to contract bird flu, the state is taking precautions to safeguard the multi-million-dollar dairy industry and ensure the safety of dairy products for consumers.
The CDC issued a health alert after a farm worker in Texas tested positive for the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) after developing conjunctivitis. This is the second human case in the U.S., with the virus having spread to affect dairy cattle herds in multiple states. While the risk remains low, the CDC recommends precautions for those with potential exposure to infected birds or cattle.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has spread to dairy herds in multiple states, infecting over one million chickens and a human who had direct exposure to infected cattle. The virus has also impacted egg production, leading to concerns about potential price increases. The USDA assures the public that pasteurization effectively eliminates the virus from milk, and proper cooking and storage practices reduce the risk of contracting bird flu from eggs. Control orders have been issued in affected areas to restrict the movement of dairy cattle, and health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.