In Europe, there have been no reported cases of bird flu in cattle, according to a spokesperson from the Food Agency. However, the disease has spread to ranches in the United States, affecting 42 dairy herds in nine states. The virus has been found in milk and cows have shown symptoms such as decreased milk production, decreased appetite, fever, and fatigue. Farm workers who come in close contact with cows, manure, and milk are at risk of infection. One person has been confirmed to have bird flu after being in contact with infected livestock.
In contrast to Europe, several employees of livestock farms in the United States have developed flu-like symptoms but only a few have been tested for the disease. The workers are mainly Spanish-speaking immigrants who may not have easy access to healthcare. According to a report by The New York Times, some of these employees were unable to get tested due to lack of insurance or fear of losing their jobs if they were found positive for bird flu.
The Food Agency advises that if dead birds appear on pastures, they should be collected quickly. Precautionary measures for citizens include avoiding unpasteurized milk. By pasteurizing milk, other pathogens are destroyed. If mass deaths of birds occur, monitoring and instructions may be tightened. The agency is prepared to examine samples if veterinarians suspect bird flu infection in cattle.
Current legislation does not allow for the order to kill infected cattle in the case of bird flu unless it poses a significant threat to public health or safety. However, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry can make regulatory changes if needed
