H5N1 Virus Found in Cow's Milk, Raising Concerns
Milk Test Results Confirm Presence of Avian Influenza Virus
Washington, D.C. (April 2, 2023) - Testing conducted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has confirmed the presence of the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAI) H5N1 in pasteurized cow's milk purchased at grocery stores in areas with confirmed cases of the virus in cows.
Extensive Testing Yields Positive Results
The FDA conducted extensive testing on pasteurized commercially purchased milk and other dairy products from 38 states. Early tests on unpasteurized milk from infected cows had previously detected the virus, but this is the first confirmation of its presence in pasteurized milk.
The agency emphasizes that while the presence of the virus in milk is concerning, there is no evidence at this time to suggest that people have been infected with HPAI H5N1 through the consumption of pasteurized milk or other dairy products.
Risk to Humans Remains Low
Health officials continue to emphasize that the risk of human infection with HPAI H5N1 remains low. However, they advise people to practice good food safety measures, such as thoroughly cooking poultry and eggs to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and avoiding contact with sick or dead birds.
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