Sterilization
The milk-related risk of H5N1 comes only from raw milk. Pasteurized milk does not contain live viruses and is therefore safe to drink. Pasteurization, which involves heating milk at a specific temperature for a specific amount of time, kills a variety of bacteria and viruses, including bird flu. Influenza viruses are generally thought to be sensitive to heat treatment because they have an outer layer called an envelope that can be destabilized by heat. The research that attracted particular attention was Efficacy of heat sterilization treatment against H5N1 I found it again and again Pasteurization effectively inactivates viruses.
The advent of pasteurization is considered a victory for public health. The introduction of a safe milk supply is Dramatic reduction in infant deaths Early 20th century. Previously, milk-borne infections such as human and bovine tuberculosis, brucellosis, salmonellosis, streptococcal infections, diphtheria, and “summer diarrhea” were common causes of infant death.
Therefore, public health authorities have long advised people not to consume raw milk. not based on evidence health advantage. On the other hand, raw milk consumption is high incidence from pathogens including Salmonella, listeria monocytogenesproduce toxins Escherichia coli, Brucella, campylobacterand many other bacteria.
dangerous drinking
Health experts have warned of additional risks from consuming raw milk since H5N1 was discovered to be spreading among dairy cows in March. Still, consumption of raw milk continues and has increased alarmingly, with proponents of the dangerous practice accusing health authorities of “fear-mongering.”
When a retail sample of Raw Farm’s milk tested positive, the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) conducted testing at the company’s site, which came back negative for the virus. CDFA will now begin testing raw farm milk for avian influenza twice a week.
The recalled milk has a lot code of 20241109 and a “best by” date of November 27, 2024 printed on the package.
“Raw milk containing avian influenza virus can cause illness if consumed or accidentally inhaled,” the California Department of Public Health said. “Additionally, you can become infected if you touch raw milk contaminated with the avian influenza virus and then touch your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.”
Some U.S. dairy workers who contracted the virus from infected cows have reported milk splashes in their eyes and faces. A common symptom of H5N1 infection in humans during dairy outbreaks is conjunctivitis, also known as eye inflammation.
