USDA Battles H5N1 in Milk

The USDA kicks off nationwide H5N1 testing in raw milk on Dec 16, targeting six states including California and Colorado. With over 720 dairy herds infected since March and 57 mild human cases, the initiative aims to safeguard farmers and consumers. Critics aren’t milking the USDA's previous lax testing, but pasteurization remains a hero by zapping the virus. Meanwhile, vaccine development is simmering on the back burner. Here’s to hoping this crackdown keeps our milk—and us—safe!