Viremia in dairy cows naturally infected with influenza A, California
A new study published in Emerging Infectious Diseases documents the detection of influenza A virus (IAV), specifically H5N1, in dairy cows affected during an outbreak in California.
The study confirms the presence of viral RNA in various sample types, notably in serum, indicating that viremia occurs in naturally infected cows. Viremia is reported to be likely transient but significant, as it may facilitate systemic viral dissemination and contribute to transmission pathways, including through milk and other bodily fluids.
The detection of viral RNA in both serum and urine suggests multiple routes of transmission and widespread tissue involvement. These findings raise concerns regarding food safety and the potential contamination of meat products derived from culled dairy cows.
