WASHINGTON, DC (AP) – The federal government has ordered testing of the nation’s milk supply for bird flu to better monitor the spread of the virus in dairy cows. The Agriculture Department said raw or unpasteurized milk from dairy farms and processors nationwide must be tested on request starting Dec. 16. Testing will begin in six states – PA, California, Colorado, Michigan, Mississippi, and Oregon. The move is aimed at eliminating the virus, which has infected more than 700 dairy herds in 15 states. Under the federal order, dairy farmers and those who handle raw milk intended for pasteurization must provide samples of the milk on request for testing for bird flu. It requires reporting of positive tests to the USDA and requires herd owners to provide information to allow tracing of the disease in cattle.
