US Government Accountability Office (GAO) or independent review panel reports

U.S. and Florida Step Up Bird Flu Testing in Dairy Products Amid Growing Concerns

Jul 1, 2024, 10:06 AM

The United States is intensifying its efforts to combat the spread of bird flu, which has now affected dairy cattle. Authorities are testing dairy products such as ice cream and butter for the virus. Florida has begun testing cows as part of these measures. Scientists have long warned about the potential for avian influenza to spark a pandemic, with the H5N1 strain now posing a global threat. The CDC has issued warnings about avian flu symptoms in humans, the potential contamination of milk, and the avian influenza vaccine. Experts are increasingly worried about gaps in surveillance that could hinder the response to a new pandemic. Virologist Bruno Lina emphasized the seriousness of the situation, calling for a more robust response from the U.S. The bird flu outbreak, which has been ongoing for three months, has highlighted deep-rooted problems in the country's response to such health crises.