A deadly strain of bird flu has been wreaking havoc on the US poultry industry since 2022, with over 90 million farmed birds succumbing to the virus. However, the situation has taken a concerning turn as the virus has now been detected in US dairy cows, sparking fears of potential transmission to humans.
Genetic evidence of the virus has been found in commercially purchased milk, though it is unclear whether it poses a live virus threat. Despite this, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reassured the public of the safety of the commercial milk supply, pending the results of a nationwide survey.
The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has come under fire for its slow and opaque response to the spread of the disease on farms. Critics have slammed the agency for delays in sharing crucial data, a lack of monitoring, and a voluntary approach to testing and reporting positive cases.
Recent reports have also revealed the presence of asymptomatic cows in North Carolina, suggesting that more herds may be infected than previously believed. In response, the USDA has issued a federal order mandating testing for lactating dairy cows before they can cross state lines, although details on enforcement remain unclear.
The USDA’s handling of the bird flu outbreak has highlighted the challenges posed by the agency’s dual role in both promotion and regulation. Critics point to the USDA’s history of industry deference in various sectors, such as pollution and animal cruelty, as evidence of a broader pattern of agricultural exceptionalism in the US food industry.
As concerns about the spread of the virus in dairy cows continue to grow, stakeholders and the public alike are watching closely to see how the USDA will navigate this latest challenge in the ongoing battle against avian influenza. Stay tuned to Guam News Factor for the latest updates on this developing story.
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