Los Angeles County Investigates Potential H5 Bird Flu Cases in Cats Linked to Raw Milk
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LOS ANGELES, CA — In a startling development, two cats in Los Angeles County have died, prompting health officials to investigate whether thay contracted H5 bird flu after consuming recalled raw milk.The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health announced the suspected cases on Thursday, raising concerns about the potential risks of raw dairy products.
The two cats, which consumed milk from Raw Farm LLC, exhibited symptoms such as loss of appetite, fever, and neurological issues before their deaths. Post-mortem tests confirmed they had Influenza A, a rare condition in cats. While the exact strain of the virus is still under investigation, officials are awaiting results to determine if it was the H5 bird flu.
Even though there have been no reported cases of humans contracting bird flu from infected cats, cats have been known to transmit other strains of flu to humans. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health emphasized the importance of vigilance in preventing the spread of the virus.
“Although human cases of bird flu are rare and the risk to residents remains low, this detection of H5 bird flu in cats who consumed raw milk underscores the importance of being proactive about preventing ongoing transmission of the virus,” the department warned.
Individuals who came into contact with the sick cats have been offered antiviral prophylaxis as a precautionary measure.
Dr. Barbara Ferrer, Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, highlighted the dangers of raw dairy products and urged residents to take preventive steps. “The risk of H5 bird flu remains low in Los Angeles County,but this suspected case of the virus in a pet cat that consumed raw milk is a reminder that consuming raw dairy products can lead to severe illness in cats,” she said. “To avoid the spread of disease, including H5 bird flu, we strongly encourage residents and their pets to avoid raw dairy and undercooked meat products, limit contact with sick or dead animals, report sick or dead birds, and keep pets or poultry away from wild animals and birds.”
The health department noted that similar cases of cats contracting H5 bird flu after consuming infected raw milk have been reported across the country during the ongoing H5 bird flu outbreak.
How Cats May Be Exposed to H5 Bird Flu
- Consuming infected birds or other animals
- Being in environments contaminated with the virus
- Consuming unpasteurized milk from infected cows
Health officials warned that raw milk can harbor harmful germs, including influenza, posing serious health risks to both people and pets.Those most vulnerable to severe illness include pregnant individuals, adults aged 65 and older, children under 5, and people with weakened immune systems.
To mitigate risks,the department advises residents to avoid raw milk and refrain from feeding it to pets. Pasteurized milk, on the other hand, remains safe for consumption.
Symptoms of H5 Bird Flu in Humans
- Eye redness or discharge
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Trouble breathing
- Fever
Anyone who has consumed the recalled raw milk products and is experiencing these symptoms should contact their healthcare provider or local health department immediately.
Preventive Measures to Protect Health
- Avoid Raw Dairy and Undercooked Meat: Do not consume raw milk, raw cheeses, or undercooked meat.Do not feed these products to pets. Freezing raw milk does not eliminate harmful germs.
- limit Contact with Animals: Avoid unprotected contact with sick or dead animals or birds. Handle wild birds with caution,wearing a well-fitting mask and gloves,and practice good hand hygiene.
- Report Sick or Dead Birds: Contact local animal control if you encounter sick or dead birds. Infected animals may show symptoms such as difficulty flying, seizures, or unexplained deaths.
- Protect Pets and Poultry: Keep pets and poultry away from wild animals and birds to prevent potential exposure to harmful pathogens.
By following these guidelines, residents can help protect themselves, their pets, and their communities from the spread of H5 bird flu and other infectious diseases.
For more information on H5 bird flu and public health guidelines, visit the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health website.
Avian Flu Precautions: Protecting Your Community and Backyard Birds
As avian influenza continues to pose a significant threat to both domestic and wild bird populations, experts are urging Americans to take proactive steps to safeguard their communities and backyard flocks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a series of guidelines aimed at minimizing the spread of this highly contagious virus.
One of the most effective measures is to limit direct contact with wild birds. “Avoiding close interaction with wild birds is crucial,” said Dr. Emily Smith, a veterinarian specializing in avian health.”this includes not feeding or handling them, as the virus can spread through direct contact or contaminated surfaces.”
Key Steps to Protect Your Backyard Birds
- Keep Your Flock Indoors: if possible, house your backyard birds indoors to reduce their exposure to wild birds and potential infection sources.
- Remove Bird Feeders and baths: Taking down bird feeders and communal bird baths can help prevent the virus from spreading among wild birds, which could then infect domestic flocks.
- Get a Seasonal Flu Vaccine: While the seasonal flu vaccine does not protect against avian influenza, it can reduce the risk of co-infection with both human and bird flu viruses, which can complicate treatment and recovery.
The CDC emphasizes that these precautions are especially crucial for those who raise backyard poultry. “Backyard flocks are particularly vulnerable as they frequently enough have more direct contact with wild birds,” said Dr. Smith. “Taking these steps can make a significant difference in protecting both your birds and your community.”
in addition to these measures,regular monitoring of your flock for signs of illness is essential. Symptoms of avian influenza in birds can include lethargy, respiratory issues, and a significant drop in egg production.If you suspect your birds may be infected,contact a veterinarian immediately.
While the risk of avian influenza spreading to humans is low, it is not zero. The virus has been known to infect people who have had prolonged and close contact with infected birds.”It’s important for people to understand that while the risk to humans is minimal, it’s still a possibility,” said Dr. Smith. “That’s why taking these precautions is so critically important.”
By following these guidelines, you can help protect your backyard birds and contribute to the broader effort to control the spread of avian influenza. For more information, visit the CDC’s website or consult with a local veterinarian.
For more updates on avian influenza and other health concerns, stay tuned to World Today News.
### Los Angeles County Investigates Potential H5 Bird Flu Cases in Cats Linked to Raw Milk
**Introduction:**
In a recent development, Los Angeles County health officials are investigating two cat deaths perhaps linked to H5 bird flu contracted from recalled raw milk. the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has raised concerns about the risks associated with raw dairy products, emphasizing the importance of vigilance to prevent the spread of the virus. This case highlights the dangers of raw milk consumption and its potential to transmit harmful pathogens, including influenza, to both humans and pets.
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### **Key Findings in the Inquiry**
– **Two Cats died from Suspected H5 Bird Flu:** Post-mortem tests confirmed Influenza A in the cats, with officials awaiting results to determine if it was the H5 strain.
– **Raw Milk from Raw Farm LLC:** the cats consumed raw milk from the recalled batch, which may have been contaminated with the virus.
- **Rare but Serious Condition in Cats:** Influenza A is uncommon in cats, and this case underscores the risks of raw milk consumption for pets.
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### **How Cats May Be Exposed to H5 Bird Flu**
– **Consuming Infected Birds or Animals:** Cats may contract the virus by eating infected birds or other animals.
– **Environmental Contamination:** Exposure to environments where the virus is present, such as farms or areas with sick birds.
– **Raw Milk Consumption:** Unpasteurized milk from infected cows can transmit the virus to cats.
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### **Health Risks of Raw Milk**
– **Harmful Germs:** Raw milk can harbor pathogens like influenza, posing serious risks to both humans and pets.
– **Vulnerable Populations:** Pregnant individuals, older adults, young children, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness.
– **No Safety in Freezing:** Freezing raw milk does not eliminate harmful bacteria or viruses.
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### **Symptoms of H5 Bird Flu in Humans**
– **Respiratory Symptoms:** Cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and trouble breathing.
– **Gastrointestinal Issues:** Diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort.
– **General Symptoms:** Fever, fatigue, muscle or body aches, and headaches.
– **Eye Infections:** Redness or discharge from the eyes.
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### **Preventive Measures to Protect Health**
1. **Avoid Raw Dairy and Undercooked Meat:**
– Do not consume raw milk, raw cheeses, or undercooked meat.
– Do not feed these products to pets.
2. **Limit Contact with Animals:**
– Avoid unprotected contact with sick or dead animals or birds.
– Handle wild birds with caution, wearing a well-fitting mask and gloves.
3. **Report Sick or Dead Birds:**
– Contact local animal control if you encounter sick or dead birds.
– Infected animals may show symptoms like difficulty flying, seizures, or unexplained deaths.
4. **Protect Pets and Poultry:**
– Keep pets and poultry away from wild animals and birds to prevent exposure to harmful pathogens.
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### **Dr. Barbara Ferrer’s Recommendations**
Dr. Barbara Ferrer, Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, emphasized the dangers of raw dairy products and urged residents to take preventive steps. She highlighted that while the risk of H5 bird flu remains low, this case serves as a reminder of the potential health hazards associated with raw milk consumption.
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### **Conclusion**
The suspected H5 bird flu cases in cats linked to raw milk underscore the importance of avoiding raw dairy products and practicing preventive measures to protect both humans and pets. By following public health guidelines,residents can help mitigate the spread of infectious diseases like H5 bird flu and ensure the safety of their communities.
For more data, visit the [Los Angeles County Department of Public Health website](https://publichealth.lacounty.gov).
