Health officials in Los Angeles County are investigating two possible cases of H5 bird flu after two cats died following the consumption of recalled raw milk from Raw Farm, LLC. The company had issued a voluntary recall of all its raw milk and cream products earlier this month. The cats exhibited symptoms such as lack of appetite, fever, and neurological signs, which worsened rapidly, ultimately leading to their deaths. Preliminary tests confirmed the presence of Influenza A in the cats, a rare occurrence in felines.
This investigation is part of a larger concern surrounding the nationwide outbreak of H5 bird flu. In similar cases across the country, cats have been infected with the virus after consuming raw milk contaminated with the virus. Although the overall risk of H5 bird flu remains low in Los Angeles County, officials caution against feeding pets raw dairy products. Public Health Director Dr. Barbara Ferrer emphasized the importance of avoiding raw dairy and undercooked meat products to prevent severe illnesses in pets and their owners.
The department reported that the cats’ owners and others who had direct contact with the animals are monitoring for symptoms and have been offered antiviral prophylaxis. While no human cases of H5 bird flu have been linked to these cats, the situation is still under investigation. Officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and to report any unusual symptoms or interactions with sick animals to health authorities promptly.
Cats are vulnerable to H5 bird flu through various routes, such as consuming infected birds or raw milk from infected animals, or exposure to contaminated environments. Health officials have listed symptoms of bird flu in humans, which include respiratory issues, fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal problems. Residents experiencing these symptoms after consuming recalled raw milk or exposure to potentially infected animals are advised to seek medical attention immediately.
In light of these findings, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is reinforcing preventative measures to curb the spread of H5 bird flu. They urge residents to avoid raw and undercooked animal products, keep pets away from wild animals, and report sick or dead wildlife to authorities. This incident serves as a crucial reminder of the potential health risks associated with raw dairy products and the importance of proactive measures in preventing infectious diseases.
