Avian Influenza Virus Spreads From Cattle to Cats and Dolphins in the US
The avian influenza virus has been making its way through various animal populations in the United States, with a recent report indicating its spread from cattle to cats and even reaching bottlenose dolphins. According to data from the US Department of Agriculture, the virus likely passed from wild birds to cattle as early as December 2023 or January 2024, before making its way to farm cows and eventually infecting cats and dolphins.
The presence of the virus in cattle herds appears to be more widespread than initially thought, with genetic traces of the virus found in 20% of cow’s milk sold in the US. While pasteurized milk is considered safe for consumption, the high percentage of viral residues in milk raises concerns about the extensive spread of the virus among cattle populations.
The transmission of the avian virus from cattle to cats has also raised alarms, with a study showing that cats on a Texas farm contracted the virus after consuming raw milk from infected cows. Unfortunately, a significant number of cats succumbed to the virus, highlighting the risks associated with the transmission of H5N1 among mammal populations.
In a surprising turn of events, the first case of a bottlenose dolphin in North America being infected with the avian influenza virus was reported in Florida on April 26. This further underscores the need for caution and vigilance in monitoring the spread of the virus among various animal species.
As authorities work on developing potential vaccines and response strategies, individuals working with cattle are advised to refrain from consuming raw milk to avoid potential exposure to the virus and other harmful bacteria. The ongoing circulation of the avian influenza virus highlights the importance of preventive measures and strict adherence to safety protocols to mitigate its impact on animal populations and prevent further transmissions to humans.