Health Warning: Bird Flu Detected in Raw Milk from Fresno Dairy

Voluntary recall at the state’s request with a Best By date of 11/27/2024.

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has issued a warning to the public to avoid consuming a specific batch of cream-top whole raw milk produced and packaged by Raw Farm, LLC of Fresno County, following the detection of the bird flu virus in a retail sample. Unlike most states, California is proactively testing for the H5N1 avian flu virus, highlighting its commitment to tracking this dangerous pathogen. H5N1 poses a significant public health threat primarily due to its potential to evolve into forms better suited for human infection or even human-to-human transmission, as seen in past pandemics.

Historically, H5N1 has had an alarming mortality rate of approximately 50%. Fortunately, the cow-adapted variant circulating now has not shown the same severity. However, evolution is unpredictable, and a single genetic leap could dramatically alter the situation. Limiting human infections is critical because every transmission gives the virus an opportunity to mutate. This is particularly concerning for individuals with weakened immune systems, such as newborns, older adults, pregnant women, or those with compromised immunity, as these populations provide fertile ground for viral evolution and severe illness. As of November 22, 2024, the H5N1 avian influenza virus has been confirmed in 616 dairy herds across 15 U.S. states with 55 confirmed human cases. Vigilance and prevention are key to mitigating this risk.

Raw Milk Recall Highlights Public Health Risks

In a recent precautionary move, Raw Farm, LLC issued a voluntary recall of its raw milk product at the request of California health authorities. The affected lot, code 20241109, has a "Best By" date of 11/27/2024. Consumers who have this product should return it to the store of purchase immediately. Pasteurized milk, by contrast, remains a safe and reliable option. California public health will increase the testing to twice a week at this facility.

This recall underscores long-standing warnings from public health experts about the risks of consuming raw milk and raw milk products. Unlike pasteurized milk, which undergoes a heating process to kill harmful bacteria and viruses, raw milk carries a heightened risk of foodborne illness. Outbreaks involving pathogens like Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, toxin-producing E. coli, Brucella, and Campylobacter have all been linked to raw dairy products. Even viruses such as avian flu can be transmitted through raw milk.

How Bird Flu Spreads From Infected Dairy Cows

The spread of H5N1 through infected cows and their milk can occur in several ways, including:

• Touching the eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands after handling raw milk from an infected cow or contaminated surfaces.

• Exposure of raw milk to the eyes, nose, or mouth, either directly or through splashing.

• Drinking raw milk from a cow infected with the bird flu virus.

California's proactive measures, including monitoring for H5N1 and encouraging safe food practices, play a vital role in preventing the spread of this dangerous pathogen. It would be great if all states were taking these measures. Choosing pasteurized milk and staying informed about public health advisories are simple yet powerful ways consumers can protect themselves and their families.

For further updates, refer to the California Department of Public Health.

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Symptoms in Humans, Cows, Poultry, and Wild Birds

Symptoms of H5N1 in Humans

While infection is relatively rare in humans, it's essential to be aware of the symptoms:

• Common:

  • Fever and chills

  • Cough

  • Sore throat

  • Muscle aches

  • Eye redness /Conjunctivitis/ Pink eye

    Note: Keep in mind that bacterial conjunctivitis is frequently seen in only one eye and generally has thicker eye discharge, while viral conjunctivitis often affects both eyes symmetrically with thinner, more watery discharge.

  • Runny or stuffy nose

  • Headaches

  • Fatigue

  • Difficulty breathing/shortness of breath

  • Diarrhea

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

• Severe Complications

  • Pneumonia

  • Acute respiratory distress syndrome

  • Neurological symptoms (confusion, seizures)

Symptoms in Dairy Cows

• Decreased lactation

• Low appetite

Symptoms in poultry (chickens, turkeys)

• Sudden death of bird with no clinical symptoms

• Lack of energy

• Inappetence

• Swelling of the head, comb, eyelid, wattles, and hocks

• Discoloration of wattles, combs, and legs

• Nasal discharge

• Coughing

• Sneezing

• Neurological signs (incoordination)

• Diarrhea

Symptoms in Wild Birds

• Neurological signs (incoordination, swimming in circles, weak)

• Sudden death

Symptoms in Cats

• Respiratory symptoms (coughing, sneezing)

• Neurological signs (seizures, paralysis), or a combination of both.

• The infection can be fatal.

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Pet Owners

Pet owners need to be aware that dogs and cats can contract bird flu, particularly if they come into contact with infected birds or their droppings. While the risk of you catching bird flu directly from your pet is low, it's still a possibility. For instance, a veterinarian in New York City contracted a mild form of bird flu (influenza A(H7N2) virus) in 2016 after treating sick cats without protective gear. (3)

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Treatment of Humans

• Antiviral Medications: Early treatment with antiviral medications (such as oseltamivir or zanamivir) is crucial to reduce the severity of illness and prevent complications. These medications may also be given as a preventative measure to those in close contact with infected birds or people.

• The historical problem has been that doctors do not identify the virus fast enough, resulting in more severe symptoms and death. Reports of severe avian influenza A(H5N1) illness in humans have included fulminant pneumonia leading to respiratory failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome, septic shock, and death.

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Earlier Articles on H5N1:

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Update: As of November 22, 2024, the H5N1 avian influenza virus has been confirmed in 616 dairy herds across 15 U.S. states with 55 confirmed human cases.

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