Avian Flu Confirmed in Cats After Drinking Raw Milk, More Cases Suspected
avian Flu Spreads: Cats in LA Test Positive After Drinking Raw Milk, Human Cases Rise
Los Angeles, CA - The highly contagious H5 avian flu virus continues to spread across the United States, with new cases emerging in cats, humans, and livestock.
In a concerning progress, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) confirmed H5 avian flu in two cats from the same household who consumed raw milk from Raw Farm. The cats, both indoor pets, experienced appetite loss, fever, and neurological symptoms before succumbing to the virus.
“The risk of H5 bird flu remains low in Los Angeles County, but these confirmed cases of the virus in pet cats are a reminder that consuming raw dairy and meat products can lead to severe illness in cats,” said Barbara Ferrer, PhD, MPH, Med, director of LACDPH.
officials are investigating three additional suspected cases in cats from a different household, with one testing positive for influenza A and the other two dying from presumed influenza A infection. These cats had no known exposure to raw milk, raising concerns about other potential transmission routes, including raw meat.
Human Cases Rise in Wisconsin and Louisiana
Meanwhile, health officials in Wisconsin and Louisiana are providing more details on recently announced human cases. In Wisconsin, a woman who worked on a farm developed mild flu-like symptoms, including sore throat, fever, fatigue, and eye discharge. She has as recovered after a course of antiviral medication.
Louisiana’s confirmed case involves an individual over 65 with underlying medical conditions who remains hospitalized in critical condition.
Outbreaks Continue in Livestock and Poultry
The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) continues to confirm new outbreaks in dairy cattle and poultry across the country. California alone has reported 650 outbreaks in dairy cattle since late August, contributing to a national total of 866 outbreaks across 16 states.
Recent confirmations include outbreaks in backyard flocks in Louisiana, North Dakota, and Iowa, and also commercial layer and turkey farms in Iowa and a layer pullet farm in California.
Protecting Yourself and Your Pets
Health officials urge residents to take precautions to prevent the spread of avian flu:
Avoid consuming raw milk and undercooked meat products. Limit exposure to sick and dead animals. Report sick and dead birds to local authorities.
Keep pets and poultry away from wild birds.
For the latest updates on avian flu, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.
Feline Flu Fear: Experts Weigh in on LA Cat Cases, rising Human Infections
NewsDirectory3.com – The recent confirmation of H5 avian flu in Los Angeles cats who consumed raw milk has sparked concern about the virus’s expanding reach. We spoke with Dr. Emily Carter, a veterinarian and zoonotic disease specialist at the University of California, Los Angeles, to understand the implications of this growth.
ND3: Dr. Carter, the LA cases are unsettling. Can you explain how cats contract avian flu and the risks associated with raw milk consumption?
Dr. Carter: cats can become infected with avian flu through contact with infected birds or their droppings, or by consuming contaminated food or water. Raw milk, especially unpasteurized milk from sources where infected birds might have access, presents a notable risk as it can harbor the virus. Pasteurization effectively kills the H5 virus, making pasteurized dairy products safe.
ND3: The LA cases involved two cats from the same household, and there are now suspected cases from a different household with no known raw milk exposure. What does this suggest?
Dr. Carter: This pattern raises concerns about potential transmission routes beyond direct contact with infected birds or raw milk. We need to investigate othre possible vectors, including potentially contaminated raw meat products.
ND3: Human cases in Wisconsin and Louisiana highlight the virus’s ability to jump species.How worried should the public be about human transmission?
Dr. Carter: While the risk to humans remains relatively low, these cases underscore the importance of vigilance. It’s crucial to remember that avian flu viruses can mutate and potentially become more transmissible to humans.People should take precautions, such as avoiding contact with sick or dead birds and practicing good hand hygiene.
ND3: With ongoing outbreaks in livestock and poultry, what measures can be taken to prevent further spread?
dr.Carter: Strict biosecurity measures on farms are essential, including limiting access to poultry, regular disinfection, and prompt reporting of sick birds. Consumers should rely on pasteurized dairy and well-cooked meat products.
ND3: What advice do you have for pet owners concerned about avian flu?
Dr. Carter: Keep cats indoors, especially in areas with known outbreaks. Avoid feeding them raw meat or milk. If you notice any flu-like symptoms in yoru pet, such as fever, lethargy, or respiratory distress, contact your veterinarian immediately.
The CDC provides comprehensive data about avian flu, including prevention, symptoms, and outbreak updates.