Bird flu virus detected in raw milk of infected animals: WHO confirms

The recent revelation by the World Health Organization regarding the presence of the H5N1 bird flu virus strain in raw milk from infected animals underscores the evolving complexity of Avian influenza outbreaks. Despite its initial emergence in 1996, recent years have seen a concerning escalation in outbreaks, affecting millions of poultry and spreading to various mammalian species, including cows and goats.

 This unexpected transmission route raises significant concerns about the virus's ability to spillover to mammals and its potential transmission through dairy products.

Wenqing Zhang, head of the global influenza programme at WHO, highlighted the gravity of these findings, noting instances of bird-to-cow and cow-to-bird transmission, suggesting novel routes of virus transition.

 The detection of the virus in milk from infected animals has sparked investigations into its survival duration and transmission risks through dairy products. However, stringent measures such as milk disposal from sick cows and pasteurisation offer reassurances that the commercial milk supply remains safe from contamination.

Despite these measures, ongoing research and vigilance are essential to understand and mitigate the risks posed by Avian influenza outbreaks, particularly concerning the transmission of the virus to mammals and its potential impact on food safety.