Health officials in Los Angeles County are investigating two cat deaths linked to suspected bird flu after the cats consumed recalled raw milk. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health said the infected cats showed symptoms such as lack of appetite, fever, and neurologic signs before dying. The department is urging residents and their pets to avoid raw dairy products and undercooked meat products to prevent the spread of disease.
The outbreak is linked to Raw Farm, LLC, which recalled all its raw milk and cream products earlier this month. Two cats that consumed the recalled milk died from the bird flu, which was confirmed through autopsy and testing. The department has reported no human cases associated with exposure to these cats yet identified.
Residents are advised to be aware of the risk of H5 bird flu transmission through consuming unpasteurized milk or being in contaminated environments. Symptoms of the virus include eye redness, cough, sore throat, diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. If symptoms occur after consuming recalled raw milk products, residents should contact their healthcare provider or local health department immediately.
The incident serves as a reminder to take precautions against the spread of disease, particularly for pets that consume raw dairy products or are exposed to infected animals.
Source: https://thehill.com/homenews/5038836-2-cats-die-from-suspected-bird-flu-traced-to-raw-milk-in-california