Bird Flu Outbreak Raises Concerns Over Raw Milk and Animal Deaths in the U.S.

The recent surge of H5N1 bird flu cases has sparked growing concerns across the United States. Following a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) order requiring raw milk testing for the virus, reports have surfaced of animals, including domestic pets, succumbing to the disease.

Cats and Bird Flu: A Fatal Link to Raw Milk

In Los Angeles County, two cats reportedly died after consuming raw, unpasteurized milk. The animals exhibited symptoms like fever, lack of appetite, and neurological issues before testing positive for influenza A, marking a rare occurrence in cats.

Dr. Barbara Ferrer of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health cautioned against consuming raw dairy products, stating, "This is a reminder of the severe risks associated with raw milk for pets and humans alike."

Bird Flu’s Reach Extends to Zoos

The outbreak has also affected wildlife at the Wildlife World Zoo in Arizona. A cheetah, mountain lion, swamphen, Indian goose, and kookaburra were among the casualties, while a white tiger is currently recovering. Zoo officials reported that swift action and robust protocols limited the outbreak’s impact, protecting their 6,000-strong animal collection.

The Risks of Consuming Raw Milk

Experts warn that raw milk consumption poses a significant risk. Dr. Jacob Glanville, CEO of Centivax, highlighted that H5N1 can survive in unpasteurized milk, making it a potential vector for infection. While the virus has not yet caused widespread illness among raw milk drinkers, its ability to mutate heightens the threat.

“Even a single mutation could dramatically increase infectivity in humans,” said Glanville, emphasizing the importance of drinking pasteurized milk to prevent exposure to harmful pathogens.

The Larger Picture: Rising H5N1 Threats

Bird flu outbreaks continue to affect dairy cattle, poultry, waterfowl, and wild birds across several states. Sam Scarpino, PhD, from Northeastern University, described the ongoing cases as signs of a worsening crisis. "We must prioritize controlling H5N1 in livestock and understanding its inter-state transmission patterns," he said.

Protecting Yourself and Your Pets

To minimize risks:

• Avoid raw milk and other unpasteurized dairy products.
• Report sick or dead animals to local authorities.
• Keep pets away from wild animals and raw meat.
• Follow USDA guidelines to limit exposure to avian influenza.