H5N1 bird flu might infect cows?
The World Health Organization warns that the H5N1 bird flu, usually found in wild birds, might infect cows in countries beyond the United States due to bird migration.
This comes after the virus was confirmed in 34 dairy cattle herds in nine U.S. states and in one person in Texas.
While the virus is common in U.S. wild birds and sometimes affects poultry and outdoor cats, it’s rare in cows.
WHO says the overall risk to public health is low but advises caution, especially for farm workers.
Although the virus isn’t known to spread through milk, WHO recommends to drink only pasteurized milk.
WHO praises the U.S. for sharing information and collaborating with organizations like the CDC to monitor and prepare for the situation.