Bird Flu Outbreak in U.S. Dairy Farms Raises Concerns

The spread of bird flu among cattle in California and a rare human case in Missouri highlight potential public health risks.

Bird flu has spread to dairy cattle in 14 U.S. states, with California's Central Valley hit hardest, impacting farmworkers and raising biosecurity concerns.
Despite the outbreak, the U.S. dairy supply remains unaffected, as pasteurization ensures milk safety, but worker health is a growing concern.
In Missouri, a second person contracted bird flu without known exposure to infected animals, prompting investigations into possible human-to-human transmission.
Federal and state officials emphasize the low risk to the general public but acknowledge the higher risk for farmworkers, many of whom are Latino immigrants.
Experts urge improved surveillance and biosecurity measures to prevent further spread and protect both workers and livestock.