In a concerning development, scientists have reported that more than half of the cats around the first Texas dairy farm to test positive for bird flu this spring have died after consuming raw milk from infected cows. The disease, which started spreading through cows earlier this year, has had devastating effects on both the feline and bovine populations.
Tests conducted on samples collected from the brains and lungs of the deceased cats showed high levels of the H5N1 virus, which has also been found in 1 in 5 samples of milk tested from U.S. retailers, according to studies by the Food and Drug Administration. The virus, known for its devastating impact on poultry flocks, has led to widespread deaths and culling of infected birds.
Previous research has linked H5N1 infections to deaths and neurological disorders in domestic cats, further raising concerns about the spread of the virus. Authorities are now working to curb further transmission in dairy cattle, believed to have spread from cow-to-cow since the initial spillover from wild birds earlier this year.
To address the potential risks posed by H5N1, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced plans to test ground beef sold at retailers for the virus and study how cooking beef could help mitigate these risks. So far, 34 dairy herds have been impacted by H5N1 out of more than 26,000 nationwide, highlighting the need for swift action to contain the spread of the virus and protect both animals and consumers.
Stay tuned to Road Rug Cars for further updates and developments on this ongoing situation.
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