Bird Flu Concerns in U.S. Milk Supply

SOURCE www.npr.org
The U.S. Department of Agriculture issued a federal order requiring the testing of the nation's milk supply due to concerns over bird flu spreading through dairy operations. California has reported the highest number of infections, with at least 58 people infected. The federal order aims to identify affected herds and control the spread of the virus nationwide.

Key Points

  • Federal order requires testing of milk supply due to bird flu concerns
  • California has reported the highest number of infections
  • At least 58 people have been infected with bird flu
  • Testing program launching in multiple states to monitor and control the spread
  • Risk of infection from consuming infected milk
  • Federal health officials deem pasteurized milk safe to drink

Pros

  • Identifying where the disease is present in the milk supply
  • Monitoring trends to help states identify affected herds
  • Farmer and farmworker confidence in the safety of their animals

Cons

  • Risk of infection from consuming infected milk
  • Recalls and quarantines for affected dairy farms
  • Potential spread of the virus through dairy operations