A second child in Northern California is suspected of contracting bird flu after consuming raw milk, health authorities said. The 7-year-old boy “experienced fever and vomiting” after drinking raw milk and has recovered, according to Marin County Public Health.
The first case was reported last month in a household with mild respiratory symptoms. A retail sample of contaminated raw milk was recalled on November 24.
There have been 32 confirmed cases of bird flu in California this year, mostly affecting poultry and dairy farm workers. The World Health Organization has described the outbreak as “a significant public health concern.”
Symptoms of bird flu mimic those of influenza and can progress to pneumonia if left untreated. Treatment involves antivirals such as Tamiflu.
Health authorities advise against consuming raw milk contaminated with live A(H5N1) virus, as it can cause illness. Pasteurization is recommended for a safer alternative.
The US Department of Agriculture has launched testing for bird flu in raw milk samples to protect public health and safety nationwide.
Source: https://people.com/child-bird-flu-raw-milk-fever-vomiting-8759789