Republican Lawmakers Advocate Caution Amidst H5N1 Bird Flu Concerns in Dairy Industry
Source: The DairyNews
Republican lawmakers are advocating for a calm approach amidst concerns over the spread of the H5N1 avian flu strain to dairy farms in multiple states.
As the virus affects more than 36 dairy farms across nine states, lawmakers fr om both sides of the aisle are pressing the Biden administration for clear information on the risks posed to dairy cows and potentially to humans.
However, Republicans are urging against alarm, expressing concerns that panic could negatively impact the dairy industry. They point to previous instances, such as the swine flu outbreak in 2009, wh ere emotional reactions led to detrimental effects on the industry.
While tests have shown that pasteurized milk remains safe, there are concerns regarding the potential threat posed by raw milk. Republican lawmakers emphasize the importance of initiatives to bolster infectious disease resources, particularly among livestock.
Despite calls for increased testing and surveillance, concerns remain about the limited information available regarding the spread of H5N1 and the associated risks. Democrats from dairy-heavy states are also urging federal action to support affected farmers and ensure consumer safety.
Republican lawmakers, however, are urging Americans not to panic, emphasizing that federal health and agriculture officials are monitoring the situation closely and stressing that the virus has not spread to humans. They are seeking further briefings and information to address any potential risks effectively.
However, Republicans are urging against alarm, expressing concerns that panic could negatively impact the dairy industry. They point to previous instances, such as the swine flu outbreak in 2009, wh ere emotional reactions led to detrimental effects on the industry.
While tests have shown that pasteurized milk remains safe, there are concerns regarding the potential threat posed by raw milk. Republican lawmakers emphasize the importance of initiatives to bolster infectious disease resources, particularly among livestock.
Despite calls for increased testing and surveillance, concerns remain about the limited information available regarding the spread of H5N1 and the associated risks. Democrats from dairy-heavy states are also urging federal action to support affected farmers and ensure consumer safety.
Republican lawmakers, however, are urging Americans not to panic, emphasizing that federal health and agriculture officials are monitoring the situation closely and stressing that the virus has not spread to humans. They are seeking further briefings and information to address any potential risks effectively.
