Scientists at the NIH have discovered a highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus in a Texas farm worker’s eye, believed to have come from infected dairy cows. While the worker only experienced mild symptoms, the virus was lethal in laboratory tests on animals. This raises concerns about bird flu in cow’s milk and unpasteurized dairy products. The virus is airborne and easily transmitted between animals, including to humans. Although most human cases have been mild, the virus is susceptible to certain antiviral drugs. While pasteurization ensures milk safety, raw milk poses a risk of infection due to potential pathogens like H5N1.
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