The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has flagged a second batch of raw milk from a Fresno County dairy farm that tested positive for the H5N1 avian flu virus. The findings come amid ongoing testing and containment efforts, with state officials halting distribution from the implicated producer.
Human Cases Rise in Dairy Workers
CDPH reported two additional avian flu infections in dairy workers, bringing the state’s total for the year to 31, nearly all linked to exposure to sick cows. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed these cases in its latest update, noting mild symptoms in both individuals. Nationally, this raises the total to 55 human cases in 2024.
Dairy and Poultry Farms Hit Hard
Federal officials have confirmed 14 new H5N1 outbreaks in California dairy herds, increasing the state’s total to 475 cases this year and the national tally to 689 across 15 states. In addition to dairy farms, poultry facilities in six states, including California, reported outbreaks involving millions of birds.
Contaminated Milk Prompts Recalls
The contaminated raw milk, produced by Raw Farms in Fresno County, tested positive during retail testing by Santa Clara Public Health Laboratory. While no illnesses linked to the milk have been reported, the farm has voluntarily recalled the affected batches. Further state testing at the farm confirmed the virus, and distribution of its products has been halted pending investigation.
Los Angeles County health officials have identified 49 retail locations, predominantly Sprouts Farmers Market outlets, that sold the contaminated milk. Residents are advised to avoid consuming the recalled products and return them to the point of purchase.
Ongoing Monitoring and Response
CDPH and federal agencies continue to expand surveillance and testing, focusing on raw milk supplies and herds across the region. With the Central Valley remaining a hotspot for dairy outbreaks, the agricultural sector faces intensified biosecurity challenges.
For more information, visit CDPH.ca.gov or contact the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) for updates on containment measures.
