Amidst an ongoing epidemic spreading through avian and cattle livestock nationwide, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced the detection of inactive remnants of the Type A H5N1 bird flu virus in certain samples of pasteurized milk. The FDA reassures consumers that this form of the virus poses no threat to human health, as it is effectively killed during the pasteurization process.
Following concerns about a potential global threat from bird flu, the FDA has intensified testing of domestic milk supplies, leading to the discovery of these inactive virus particles in a limited number of samples. The agency emphasizes that these remnants do not impact the safety of the commercial milk supply, as the pasteurization process eliminates any potential risks.
Extensive testing is ongoing to ensure the safety of egg and milk production from the virus. The FDA closely monitors the situation and anticipates releasing the results of these ongoing safety studies soon. To date, only two individuals in the US have contracted bird flu, including a Texas dairy worker who has since recovered after experiencing only minor symptoms.
The FDA continues to urge consumers to avoid consuming raw eggs and milk, emphasizing the safety of pasteurization and heat treatment processes in store-purchased products.
