Bird Flu Detected in California Raw Milk: Health Risks and Dairy Recalls

So far, there are no illness reports linked to the bird flu virus found in raw milk from a Fresno dairy. The dairy, Raw Farm LLC, has a history of selling contaminated products, leading to illnesses over the years. In February, 11 people became sick after consuming Raw Farm’s cheddar cheese, with five needing hospitalization.

Last year, California authorities issued three recalls of Raw Farm products due to bacteria such as Campylobacter and Salmonella found in milk, cheese, and heavy cream. Between 2012 and 2023, at least 35 illnesses were reported connected to their raw products. Mary McGonigle-Martin from Murrieta recounted her son’s near-fatal experience in 2006 due to E. coli from raw milk purchased from the farm.

Bird flu is raising new concerns regarding raw milk, as it has not undergone pasteurization, which kills harmful germs. Experts warn that advocacy for raw milk, such as that from Robert F. Kennedy Jr., might increase the risk of exposure to the virus. Currently, over 400 cattle herds in California test positive for the bird flu, affecting 40% of the state’s dairy industry.

In the U.S., 53 people have been infected with avian flu. Of these, the majority of California’s cases are linked to dairy farms. On November 21, officials found the avian virus in a sample of raw whole milk, prompting health officials to recommend removing the product from retail.

Raw Farms has voluntarily recalled the affected raw milk with lot ID #20241109, which has a best-by date of November 27, 2024. Scientists warn that milk not subjected to pasteurization poses a higher risk of infection from various pathogens.

Questions and Answers:

Q: Can I catch avian flu from raw milk?
A: No human cases from raw milk have been reported, but infected animals can show symptoms after consuming untreated milk.

Q: How do microbes get into milk?
A: Even healthy cows can contaminate milk with bacteria. Farms have higher pathogen levels due to more feces.

Q: Why does pasteurization make milk safe?
A: Pasteurization uses heat to kill harmful bacteria, extending shelf life.

Q: Is raw milk legal in California?
A: Yes, but sellers must follow strict sanitation and licensing regulations. Warning labels must be included due to potential risks.

Q: Isn’t raw milk supposed to be healthy?
A: There is no nutritional difference between raw and pasteurized milk. Raw milk can still contain harmful bacteria.

Q: What is dangerous about raw milk?
A: Raw milk caused 96% of illnesses from contaminated dairy products, leading to many hospitalizations. High-risk groups include young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with weak immune systems.

In summary, while bird flu has not caused direct illnesses linked to raw milk yet, there are serious existing health risks associated with unpasteurized dairy products. Consumers should be cautious and informed about these dangers.