Traces of Bird Flu Found in California Raw Milk, Prompting Recall

California public health officials have raised alarms after traces of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu, were discovered in raw milk produced by Raw Farm LLC. The virus was detected during routine testing of cream-top, whole raw milk, leading the company to voluntarily recall the affected batch with a “best by” date of November 27. Although no illnesses linked to this product have been reported, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has urged consumers to avoid the raw milk and return it to retailers for a refund.

The discovery comes amid an unusual spread of bird flu among dairy cows across the U.S., heightening concerns about its adaptability and potential for cross-species transmission. First reported in March among dairy cows, this multistate outbreak has added to growing fears about the virus’s rising frequency and diversity of infections in mammals. Tests conducted by the Santa Clara County Public Health Laboratory confirmed the presence of bird flu in one raw milk sample, with verification by the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System.

Public health experts have long cautioned against the consumption of raw milk, citing elevated risks of foodborne illnesses from pathogens like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria. Unlike pasteurized milk, raw milk products lack a heating process that kills harmful bacteria and viruses, including bird flu. CDPH has also advised retailers to remove the affected raw milk from shelves as a precautionary measure to protect consumers.

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