Bird Flu Strain Found in US Dairy Cows: Health Officials Say Milk and Beef Remain Safe
A new strain of bird flu (H5N1 variant D1.1) has been discovered in dairy cow herds across Nevada, marking the first time this strain has been identified in cattle. This follows the B3.13 strain that has already infected 950 herds in 16 states.
Dairy cows lined up in field
The CDC reports 67 confirmed human cases in the U.S., mostly among people working directly with dairy cows and poultry. While most cases have been mild, the virus can cause serious illness. Of 950 global cases in the past two years, approximately 50% resulted in death. One death has occurred in the U.S.
Food Safety Status:
- Milk: Safe when pasteurized (pasteurization kills the virus)
- Beef: Safe due to rigorous meat inspection processes
- Eggs: Safe when properly cooked to 165°F internal temperature
Expert opinions are divided on risk levels:
- CDC maintains public health risk is low
- Dr. William Schaffner (Vanderbilt University) confirms the virus lacks genetic capacity for easy human transmission
- Dr. Abraar Karan (Stanford) and Dr. Seema Lakdawala (Emory) suggest increasing risk, particularly from cow-to-human transmission
Current Impact:
- 1,500+ outbreaks in 634 U.S. counties since January 2022
- 145 million birds culled to contain the virus
- Nationwide egg shortage and price increases
- Raw milk recall in California (November)
Preventive Measures:
- Cook all meat and eggs thoroughly
- Avoid unpasteurized dairy products
- Practice proper food handling hygiene
- High-risk individuals (farmers, veterinarians) should take extra precautions
The situation remains under active monitoring by health authorities, with emphasis on food safety through proper handling and cooking procedures.
Related Articles
Study Shows Vaping Makes Quitting Smoking Harder, Not Easier
