Raw Milk Consumption Linked to Bird Flu Deaths in California Cats
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Concerns over avian influenza continue to rise across the nation,fueled by a tragic incident in California’s Inland Empire. Joseph journell, a devoted cat owner, lost two of his beloved pets after they consumed raw milk possibly contaminated with the bird flu virus. This heartbreaking story underscores the significant health risks associated with consuming unpasteurized dairy products.
Journell, a long-time cat owner, shared his devastating experience. ”after a couple days I noticed they weren’t eating their wet food adn also not drinking the milk I offered to them after that,” Journell recounted. “My oldest cat Alexander, he jumped up on the bed and put his head down and that’s when I knew something was wrong.”
Journell’s cats, Tuxsie and Alexander, succumbed to the illness after drinking raw milk. He possesses veterinary test results confirming the bird flu infection and purchase receipts for the implicated raw milk. This tragic event is not isolated. According to California state officials, eleven cats have died after consuming raw milk and raw pet food in the state since last month.Seven of these deaths occurred in Los Angeles County, with two—Tuxsie and Alexander—in san Bernardino County.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has responded to the outbreak by issuing a federal order requiring the collection of unpasteurized milk samples from dairy farms for thorough testing. This proactive measure aims to determine the extent of the contamination and prevent further spread of the virus.
Raw Farm, the Fresno-based company that produced the milk Journell believes caused his cats’ deaths, released an online video message addressing the situation. The statement included the line, ”There are no illnesses associated with H5N1 in our products, but rather this is a political issue. There are no food safety issues with our products or consumer safety.” This statement has been met with skepticism given the number of reported illnesses and deaths.
Journell is still grappling with the loss of his pets. “I’m gonna have to live with that,” he said, his voice heavy with emotion. “That I actually gave the milk to my kitties and killed two of them.” another of his cats, Big Boy, survived but required extensive and costly veterinary care, including a lengthy hospital stay and physical therapy to regain mobility after consuming the same milk. Despite this ordeal, Journell maintains a belief in the potential health benefits of raw milk, stating, “I think it’s beneficial, so I’m not gonna say it’s bad for people.But, of course we need more testing on every lot of milk.”
Journell is seeking reimbursement from Raw farm for his nearly $12,000 in veterinary bills and is considering legal action if necesary. His story serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of consuming raw milk and the importance of prioritizing food safety.
This incident highlights the critical need for consumers to be aware of the risks associated with raw milk consumption. Pasteurization is a crucial process that eliminates harmful bacteria and viruses, protecting public health. The CDC and other health organizations strongly advise against consuming raw milk.
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Raw Milk Safety Concerns Rise amid avian Flu Deaths in Cats
A recent cluster of feline deaths in California linked to raw milk consumption is raising concerns about the safety of unpasteurized dairy products, especially in light of the ongoing avian influenza outbreak. This tragic incident has thrust the importance of food safety, notably surrounding raw milk, into the national spotlight.
To better understand the risks involved and the actions being taken to protect public health, we spoke with Dr. Emily Carter, a veterinarian and expert in zoonotic diseases.
Avian Flu: A Growing Threat
World-Today News Senior Editor: Dr. Carter, can you explain how avian influenza could possibly contaminate raw milk and why that poses a risk to both animals and humans?
dr. Emily Carter: Avian influenza,like the H5N1 strain,primarily affects birds. However, the virus can spread to other animals, including mammals, through contact with infected birds or their bodily fluids. If a dairy cow were to come into contact with contaminated bird droppings or feces and then the milk they produce wasn’t pasteurized, the virus could potentially be present in the raw milk.
Consuming raw milk from an infected source could lead to illness in both cats and humans. While cats are particularly susceptible, humans can also contract avian influenza through contaminated dairy products.Symptoms in both humans and animals can range from mild respiratory illness to severe complications, sometimes including death.
The Dangers of Raw Milk Consumption
Senior Editor: This tragic case involving Joseph Journell and the loss of his two cats highlights the potential dangers of raw milk. What are the inherent risks associated with consuming unpasteurized milk?
Dr. Carter: Raw milk is inherently risky as it hasn’t undergone the pasteurization process, which effectively kills harmful bacteria, including Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria.These pathogens can cause serious foodborne illnesses in humans and animals.
While some people believe raw milk offers health benefits, the potential risks far outweigh any perceived advantages. Pasteurization is a crucial step in ensuring the safety of dairy products and protecting public health.
Responding to the outbreak and Protecting Public Health
Senior Editor: What steps are health officials taking to address this outbreak and prevent further spread of avian influenza,particularly through raw milk?
Dr. Carter: The U.S. Department of Agriculture has issued a federal order requiring the testing of unpasteurized milk samples from dairy farms. This proactive measure will help determine the extent of contamination and identify any farms potentially impacted by avian influenza.
Additionally, the CDC and other health organizations are recommending that people avoid consuming raw milk altogether. Pasteurized milk is a safe and nutritious alternative that eliminates the risk of contracting foodborne illnesses from unpasteurized products.
Senior Editor: Dr. Carter, thank you for shedding light on this crucial public health issue. Your expertise provides crucial insights that can help protect people and their pets.
