Public Health Officials Investigate Possible H5 Bird Flu Cases in Cats
Public health officials are investigating two possible cases of H5 bird flu in cats that ingested recalled raw milk in Los Angeles County.
Cats Developed Symptoms After Consuming Recalled Raw Milk
According to the county Department of Public Health, the two felines consumed raw milk linked to a recall of products from Raw Farm LLC. The cats subsequently developed symptoms including lack of appetite, fever, and neurological signs, and both later died.
Cats Tested Positive for Influenza A, H5 Bird Flu Suspected
The two cats tested positive for Influenza A, which is considered a rare result in cats, health officials said Thursday. DPH officials are awaiting the results of tests to confirm suspicions that the cats contracted H5 bird flu.
Nationwide H5 Bird Flu Outbreak Linked to Raw Milk Consumption
“The nationwide H5 bird flu outbreak has seen other cats infected with the virus after consuming infected raw milk,” according to a DPH statement.
Precautions Taken, No Human Cases Identified
People who had direct contact with the cats are monitoring for symptoms and have been offered antiviral prophylaxis. There have been no human cases of bird flu associated with exposure to these cats yet identified.
Public Health Reminder: Avoid Raw Dairy Products
DPH Director Barbara Ferrer emphasized the importance of avoiding raw dairy products to prevent the spread of disease. “To avoid the spread of disease, including H5 bird flu, we strongly encourage residents and their pets to avoid raw dairy and undercooked meat products, limit contact with sick or dead animals, report sick or dead birds, and keep pets or poultry away from wild animals and birds,” she said.
Avoid Raw Milk and Undercooked Meat Products
Authorities strongly urged residents to avoid consuming raw milk and to not feed it to their pets. This includes frozen raw milk products, since freezing does not eliminate germs that can cause illness. Pasteurized milk remains safe to drink.
Conclusion
The investigation into the possible H5 bird flu cases in cats serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety and the risks associated with consuming raw dairy products. Public health officials urge residents to take precautions to prevent the spread of disease and to avoid raw milk and undercooked meat products.
FAQs
Q: What is H5 bird flu?
A: H5 bird flu is a type of influenza A virus that affects birds and can occasionally infect other animals, including cats.
Q: How can I avoid getting H5 bird flu?
A: Avoid consuming raw milk and undercooked meat products, limit contact with sick or dead animals, report sick or dead birds, and keep pets or poultry away from wild animals and birds.
Q: Is pasteurized milk safe to drink?
A: Yes, pasteurized milk remains safe to drink.
Q: What should I do if my cat consumes raw milk?
A: If your cat consumes raw milk, monitor its symptoms and seek veterinary care if it develops signs of illness.
Q: Can H5 bird flu be transmitted to humans?
A: No human cases of bird flu associated with exposure to these cats have been identified yet. However, it is essential to take precautions to prevent the spread of disease.
