H5N1 Bird Flu Detected in Raw Farm LLC's Raw Milk; California Issues Statewide Recall

Nov 25, 2024, 03:15 PM

The highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (H5N1), commonly known as bird flu, has been detected in raw milk sold across California, prompting health officials to issue warnings and a statewide product recall. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) confirmed that the virus was found in a retail sample of 'cream top' whole raw milk produced and packaged by Raw Farm LLC of Fresno County. The affected quart and half-gallon products, with an expiration date of November 27, were sold in retail stores statewide. Raw Farm LLC has initiated a voluntary recall of the contaminated batch, and consumers are advised not to consume the product and to return or discard it. Milk from infected cows contains extremely high levels of the virus, though no human cases have been reported at this time. The detection was made during routine testing performed by the County of Santa Clara Public Health Laboratory, and testing will now be increased to twice weekly for enhanced protection.