Dairy Farmers Concerned about Avian Influenza Infections in Herds
Dairy farmers in California have noticed a concerning drop in milk production, leading to worries about avian influenza infections in herds across several states. The infected states include Texas, New Mexico, Idaho, Ohio, Kansas, Michigan, and North Carolina. In response, officials have imposed restrictions on cattle imports to prevent the spread of the virus. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has also urged livestock managers to minimize cattle movement to help contain the outbreak.
While the risk of the virus spreading to humans is considered low, the situation has left dairy farmers on edge. Avian flu has previously infected various mammal species worldwide, including humans, but cattle infections with H5N1 bird flu viruses are unprecedented. The virus has shown the ability to jump from birds to mammals, raising concerns among experts.
Experts believe that better coordination between agencies is needed to address the disease effectively. Public health agencies in California are asking farmers to be vigilant and watch out for sick birds and mammals on their farms. Concerns have also been raised about infecting cattle through poultry litter used in feed.
Despite assurances from officials, some experts are worried about the potential for human transmission of the virus. There are fears about the virus evolving to be easily transmissible between humans, especially with its presence on mammalian factory farms. The widespread and duration of the virus remain unknown, with some suggesting it may have been circulating undetected for weeks or months.
Furthermore, concerns about possible recombination with human and bird flu viruses in factory pigs and swine have also been raised. Overall, the situation has dairy farmers and experts alike on high alert, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to prevent further spread of the virus.
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