Update on Bird Flu in the U.S.

The CDC, USDA, and FDA are working together to contain and keep the public updated on the current avian influenza A (H5N1) situation in people. The CDC reports that, as of May 6 there has been no increase in bird flu cases in humans in the U.S. The USDA reports detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in dairy cattle herds in six states. The FDA is monitoring milk safety during the HPAI outbreak. Although HPAI virus has been detected in samples from some sick cattle, all milk entering the commercial milk supply must be pasteurized, and pasteurization has continually proven to inactivate bacteria and viruses. Therefore, FDA reports no concern for transmission of HPAI to the public through the commercial milk supply.