Bird Flu Found in California Raw Milk #

Public Health Alert Over Potential Contamination #

Bird flu has been detected in a batch of raw milk in California, prompting a warning from state health officials. Consumers are advised against drinking the affected milk, although no illnesses have been reported from the contaminated batch.

The implicated raw milk came from Raw Farm LLC in Fresno County. Products recalled include quart and half-gallon sizes with a lot ID of 20241109 and a November 27 best-by date. The Santa Clara County Public Health Laboratory discovered the bird flu strain H5 during routine testing, which was later confirmed by the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory.

In response, Raw Farm stated they are adhering to safety protocols and that the potentially contaminated milk has been removed from store shelves. All safety checks conducted by the company have returned negative results for bird flu.

Raw milk, which is not pasteurized, carries risks of transmitting pathogens, which is why public health officials warn against its consumption. Additional warning from the FDA urged states to implement protective measures in light of bird flu’s spread among livestock.

With renewed interest in raw milk, despite the health risks, the FDA and CDC emphasize the dangers. Recent bird flu outbreaks in wild birds, poultry, and dairy cattle have increased these concerns, prompting the latest recall.

So far in 2024, there have been 55 human cases of bird flu in the U.S., including 29 cases in California, primarily among farm workers. The CDC recently noted a case in a child, still under investigation, emphasizing the need for caution and quick reporting of any symptoms after consuming raw milk.