Raw milk products are not pasteurized, making them more susceptible to carrying harmful pathogens, in this case, bird flu.
Image explaining how H5N1 can be transmitted from cow to human.
Image credit: CDC
California health officials issued a warning after a second batch of raw milk from Raw Farms tested positive for H5N1, prompting a recall and new health alerts. In addition, two dairy workers in California have tested positive for the virus, raising the state's total human cases to 31 for 2024. The national total of human cases is now at 55.1
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) originally issued the alert on November 27, following the detection of the virus in milk produced by Raw Farms, based in Fresno County. While no human illnesses have been linked to the contaminated milk, investigations are ongoing, and health authorities are tracking affected products at retail outlets.2
The affected batch of raw milk was discovered through testing at the Santa Clara Public Health Laboratory, leading to a voluntary recall of products by Raw Farms. Health authorities are also monitoring other affected retail locations, including Sprouts Farmers Market stores. Authorities are also tracking retail outlets that sold the contaminated milk, with 49 locations identified, including Sprouts Farmers Market stores. Consumers who have purchased the recalled milk are urged to return it to the retailer.1
The H5N1 virus has spread to additional dairy herds and poultry farms in the US Since November 27, California has reported 14 new outbreaks, raising the state’s total to 475, with 689 affected dairy herds across 15 states. Poultry farms in California, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, and Tennessee have also been impacted.1
Symptoms of bird flu in humans can include fever, cough, sore throat, diarrhea, muscle aches, fatigue, difficulty breathing, and pneumonia, with severe cases potentially leading to death. The virus spreads primarily through contact with infected animals or their bodily fluids, including feces, feathers, and saliva. People can become infected by inhaling contaminated dust or droplets, touching contaminated surfaces, or consuming raw (unpasteurized) milk from infected cows.3
A batch of raw milk from Raw Farms in California tested positive for H5N1, prompting a recall and health alert.
Two dairy workers in California tested positive for H5N1, bringing the total number of human cases in the state to 31.
Health officials emphasize that pasteurized milk is safe to consume, and the overall risk to the public remains low.
To reduce the risk of infection, workers should use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as goggles, NIOSH-approved respirators, gloves, coveralls, and boots when handling animals that could be infected with H5N1. Workers are also advised to wash their hands thoroughly after handling animals, animal waste, or raw dairy products.1
To protect workers at high risk, the California Department of Public Health has distributed protective gear and provided 5,000 seasonal flu vaccines to dairy farm workers to reduce the potential for co-infection with seasonal flu. California health officials recommend wearing dedicated work clothing and footwear, changing after work, and showering to reduce the chance of spreading the virus.3
As the situation evolves, California health officials are urging the public to stay informed about potential risks related to bird flu. For the latest updates and guidance, individuals can contact their local public health department or visit the CDPH website. While outbreaks continue, health officials emphasize that the risk to the public remains low. There have been no cases of person-to-person transmission, and no illnesses have been linked to the contaminated raw milk. Health authorities reassure consumers that pasteurized milk is safe, as the pasteurization process effectively eliminates the virus.1
