In recent news, the discovery of traces of the bird flu virus in pasteurised cow milk in the United States has raised concerns about the potential impact on human health. However, experts emphasize that there is little risk of transmission to humans through food contamination.
The outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has affected dairy cattle herds across the United States, with one human reported to have been infected with mild symptoms. Although the H5N1 strain of HPAI has caused significant mortality among poultry during the current wave, infected cows have not exhibited severe illness.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) confirmed the presence of viral particles in milk samples from affected animals, as well as in the processing system and on shelves. However, these samples underwent testing using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), which detects genetic material remnants of the pathogen. Importantly, the virus itself was rendered inactive by the heat of the pasteurisation process.
The emergence of the bird flu A/H5N1 strain among cows and goats has surprised experts, as these animals were not previously considered susceptible to this type of virus. The rapid multiplication of the virus in a cow’s udder has been attributed to a new H5N1 variant in the United States, which has intermingled with local viruses.
Despite concerns about the virus’s potential spread to humans, most experts maintain that the likelihood of widespread contamination is low. While infections in humans can occur, they are typically limited to mild symptoms, such as eye infections, or more severe cases affecting the pulmonary alveoli in the lungs.
Pasteurisation effectively destroys the virus present in milk, significantly reducing the risk of transmission through consumption. However, the consumption of raw milk carries greater potential risks, although no cases of H5N1 infections from contaminated raw milk have been documented.
It’s essential to note that the latest virus strain discovered in the United States differs from those circulating in Europe, and no H5N1 infections have been reported in French cows to date. Nonetheless, ongoing vigilance and monitoring of these viruses are necessary due to their rapid mutation capabilities.
While the detection of bird flu virus traces in cow milk raises concerns, the risk to human health is considered minimal, especially with the pasteurisation process effectively neutralising the virus. Continued surveillance and adherence to food safety protocols remain crucial in mitigating any potential risks associated with avian influenza.
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