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The recent detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) or bird flu among commercial poultry flocks in Texas and Michigan has stirred some concern among consumers and farmers alike. This article aims to provide a thorough understanding of the issue based on the questions and answers provided by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Texas Department of Agriculture, and the University of Minnesota’s study.
HPAI is an extremely infectious and often fatal disease in birds, caused by avian influenza A (H5) and A (H7) viruses. Although these viruses primarily affect birds, occasional human infections have occurred. However, it’s essential to clarify that “highly pathogenic” refers to its severity in birds, not necessarily in humans.
The FDA, in collaboration with the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), has held that the likelihood of eggs from infected poultry reaching the retail market is low. Furthermore, proper storage and preparation reduce the risk even further. They emphasize that safe food handling and cooking poultry at the correct temperature is vital to prevent any potential food safety hazard.
The FDA and USDA-FSIS play a significant role in ensuring egg safety. FDA regulations govern the production, transportation, and storage of shell eggs, while the USDA is responsible for implementing the Egg Products Inspection Act (EPIA), overseeing the inspection of processed egg products.
Considering the recent HPAI outbreaks, the FDA has updated its biosecurity protocols for on-farm visits during egg inspections. This is to prevent further spread of HPAI during egg farm inspections. In the wake of such outbreaks, farmers are encouraged to continuously follow biosecurity requirements to reduce potential HPAI infections in birds on the farm.
The Texas Department of Agriculture has confirmed that the mystery disease affecting several dairies has been identified as a strain of HPAI, popularly termed Bird Flu. Commissioner Miller reiterated that strict safety measures and pasteurization protocols ensure that dairy products remain unaffected by HPAI. Furthermore, he confirmed that there’s no risk to the public and no supply shortages are expected.
Meanwhile, CDC’s analysis of H5N1 avian flu samples suggests that the infection might involve the eyes but perhaps not the upper respiratory tract. The results of the analysis do not change the CDC’s assessment that the overall risk to human health remains low. However, mild cases like conjunctivitis may pose a challenge if they aren’t isolated and properly dealt with.
Furthermore, the CDC analysis has shown promising results for potential vaccine and antiviral treatments. The human virus aligns closely with two candidate vaccine virus (CVV) strains. Moreover, no resistance markers to antivirals targeting different gene segments indicate the viability of neuraminidase inhibitors.
In conclusion, while HPAI remains a concern, authorities are taking decisive steps to mitigate risks and ensure food safety.
Information Box:
HPAI, or Bird Flu, is a contagious and often fatal disease in birds.
The safety of eggs and other poultry products in the retail market remains even amid outbreaks.
The FDA and USDA-FSIS oversee egg safety.
The CDC’s latest analysis indicates the potential for vaccine and antiviral treatments against HPAI.
References:
1: FDA – Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Outbreaks
2: Texas Department of Agriculture – HPAI Identified in the Texas Panhandle
3: University of Minnesota – CDC sequencing of Bird Flu yields new clinical clues