Reports from the California Department of Public Health

California Recalls Raw Farm's "Cream Top" Milk After Bird Flu Detected

Nov 25, 2024, 01:28 AM

California health officials have detected the H5N1 bird flu virus in a retail sample of "cream top" raw milk products sold by Raw Farm LLC of Fresno County. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) confirmed the detection on Sunday after the sample tested positive and has issued a recall for quart and half-gallon sized whole milk products with an expiration date of November 27, 2024. The affected products have been distributed statewide to dozens of grocery stores, including those in the Bay Area. Consumers are urged not to consume the recalled milk and to return or discard it. The detection of avian influenza in raw milk raises serious concerns about cross-species transmission of the virus. Milk from infected cows contains staggering levels of the virus, posing a potential risk to humans. Health experts warn that the virus entering the food supply could have significant public health implications. This incident highlights the evolving nature of H5N1 and the importance of taking preventive measures to curb its spread.