Study Highlights
The latest study has further emphasised the possibility of virus-infected raw milk not being safe for mammals, especially humans.
Research Findings
- Unpasteurised milk contaminated with bird-flu virus H5N1 can make mammals, especially humans, sick and damage their organs.
- The study was conducted in response to the detection of bird flu virus in dairy herds across nine states in the United States.
- Virologist Yoshihiro Kawaoka warns against drinking raw milk, advocating for pasteurisation to ensure safety.
Implications and Concerns
The Food and Drug Administration found traces of the virus in dairy products on grocery shelves, raising concerns about the safety of raw milk consumption.
Dr. Nahid Bhadelia highlights the global implications of the findings, especially in regions without central pasteurisation.
Study Methodology
Researchers collected milk samples from an affected dairy herd in New Mexico and observed a slow decline in virus levels in refrigerated raw milk, suggesting potential long-term presence of H5N1.
The study results were published in the New England Journal of Medicine.
Additional Discoveries
Bird flu virus was also found in the beef of a sick dairy cow, prompting investigations by the US Department of Agriculture.
While the contaminated cow’s meat did not enter the food supply, beef consumption was deemed safe.
Conclusion
These findings underscore the importance of pasteurisation in ensuring the safety of dairy products and highlight the need for continued vigilance in monitoring potential viral contamination.
