Department Of Agriculture To Begin Testing Milk Supply For Bird Flu Virus

The New York Times (12/6, Mandavilli, Anthes) reported, “The U.S. Department of Agriculture will begin testing the nation’s milk supply for the bird flu virus known as H5N1, nearly a year after the virus began circulating through dairy cattle, the department announced on Friday.” Under this strategy, “officials will test samples of unpasteurized milk from large storage tanks at dairy processing facilities across the country.” In addition, “farmers and dairy processors will be required to provide samples of raw milk on request from the government.” The Washington Post (12/6, Johnson, Malhi) reported, “The mandatory testing system is designed to identify which states and specific herds have been affected by the H5N1 virus.” Thus far, “the virus has spread to 720 herds in 15 states” and “nearly 60 people, mostly farmworkers, have been sickened with bird flu in the United States.” Reuters (12/6, Douglas) also reported.