Another Bird Flu Update: May 23, 2024

I hope you are well and have fun plans as you head into the Memorial Day holiday. I want to share with you an update on the Bird Flu situation.

1. Another dairy cow to human case has been detected in the US, this one in Michigan. You may recall the last one was in Texas. Like the last case, the human is a dairy worker with close contact with the cows. Also, like the last case, he had mild systems largely manifested in his eye. (i.e., it looked like pink eye or an eye infection). It was caught early.

2. Since 2020, globally, we have seen bird flu spread to other species, such as dogs, cats, skunks, bears, seals, porpoises, and dairy cows. (read more here)

3. Currently, there are 51 dairy herds in nine states impacted.

4. If you are a dairy farmer or have dairy cows, you need to be aware of your risk. That isn't many of us.

5. Currently, we have not found any live virus in pasteurized milk because pasteurization kills it (but they have found viral particles - meaning bits and pieces of the virus). But it has been found in very high levels in raw milk - so if you consume raw milk, please be aware of the risk, particularly if you live in one of the nine states with a current outbreak.

6. Read the FDA update here and the CDC report here.

7. Right now, this is not something to be alarmed about, but it is something to be aware of. As the virus mutates and adapts to different hosts (i.e., different types of animals), it becomes better equipped to spread among more animals. We have now seen that it is possible for it to spread from animals to humans, so we need to continue to monitor that. Also, watch your pets. Dogs and cats will eat a dead or wounded bird they find, and the disease can be transmitted to them that way.

FINAL THOUGHTS: We are heading into Memorial Day weekend, so I would like to take a moment to reflect and honor the bravery and sacrifice of those who have paid the ultimate price for our nation. It is a reminder of the strength and resilience that resides inside each of us. As we remember and honor our nation's heroes, let us also appreciate the small victories in our lives. Let us embrace each new day with gratitude, knowing that together, we are healthier and stronger. Let the spirit of remembrance inspire us to unity and positive change for ourselves and for those around us.