An outbreak of bird flu in dairy cows in California’s Central Valley has raised concerns about the true extent of the virus in the US. With inadequate testing and biosecurity measures in place, experts worry that the outbreak may be more widespread than reported, with eight affected herds discovered in California this month alone.
Multiple states, including Missouri and Colorado, have seen cases of H5N1 in animals and workers, highlighting the need for more testing. The virus has even been detected in wastewater in San Francisco. The USDA is considering recommending bulk milk testing to identify infected cows that appear healthy.
Experts fear that the virus could spread further if not properly contained. Vaccines for cows and humans are currently in development, with no human cases reported in California yet. Stricter biosecurity measures, such as decontaminating transportation vehicles and improving rearing and milking practices, are being recommended.
The economic impact of a widespread outbreak in California, the nation’s leading dairy producer, could be significant. Protecting farm workers and ensuring early detection and response are crucial to prevent further spread of the virus. As the situation continues to evolve, it is important to prioritize testing, biosecurity, and vaccination efforts to limit the impact of the bird flu outbreak.
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