The U.S. national milk supply must be tested for the avian influenza virus under a new federal order from the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced Friday.
The mandate comes as authorities seek to combat the rapid spread of avian influenza, known as H5N1, among dairy herds. In California, the top dairy producing state, the virus has spread to more than 500 dairy herds.
More than 700 dairy herds nationwide have been reported infected since March, according to the USDA.
Nearly 60 people have contracted the virus since April. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most of these cases are workers at infected dairy farms. So far, symptoms have been mild, and CDC officials say the risk to the general public from avian influenza is low at this time.
The potentially deadly virus is not known to spread easily between people, but if the infection is left untreated, it gives the virus a chance to become even more contagious, researchers warn. I am doing it.
Notably, scientists at the Scripps Research Institute report that it will take time. just one mutation Current avian influenza viruses produce versions that can more easily attach to human cells.
The USDA's new strategy to combat the virus includes testing bulk samples of raw milk from dairy processing facilities across the country.
“Among many achievements, this gives farmers and farmworkers better confidence in the safety of their animals and their ability to protect themselves, and puts us on the path to quickly controlling and stopping the spread of the virus nationwide.” '' said Secretary of Agriculture Tom. Vilsack said Friday. in a press release.
Farmers, dairy processors and other entities that handle raw milk will be required to provide samples of unpasteurized milk upon government request. Dairy farm owners with infected herds will also be required to provide detailed information to help authorities identify more potential cases and people who have come into contact with the virus.
The new testing rules come after many experts, including some at the World Health Organization, criticized the apparent lack of testing for both cattle and humans. Previously, government guidance on how to deal with the outbreak was voluntary.
