Cows have human flu receptors, study shows, raising stakes on bird flu outbreak in dairy cattle

Cows Found Infected with H5N1 Influenza Virus Raise Concerns of Virus Adaptation and Spread #

A recent discovery of the H5N1 influenza virus in dairy cows has raised concerns within the dairy industry and among public health officials worldwide. The virus was found to have infected cows in several states, with the infected animals showing high concentrations of the virus in their mammary glands and milk. Researchers have found that cows have receptors for flu viruses that are similar to those found in humans and birds, indicating the potential for the virus to spread more efficiently between humans. While the current risk to public health is low, experts warn of the possibility of a pandemic if the virus continues to adapt and spread. Measures are being taken to monitor and contain the virus in the dairy cattle population.

The discovery of the H5N1 influenza virus in cows, previously believed to primarily affect birds, has sparked concerns over the adaptation and spread of the virus. The virus was found in infected cows’ mammary glands and milk, indicating the potential for it to spread between humans. While the risk to public health is currently low, there is a need for increased monitoring and containment measures in the dairy cattle population to prevent further transmission.