Dangerous Virus Has Been Found in Colorado Cows

Over the past few months, we’ve seen some scary situations with Colorado’s food. 

Get our free mobile app

Just yesterday, there was reported that there was a major food recall for walnuts packaged by Gibson Farms. These are contaminated with E. coli., which can cause a nasty infection.

Back in December, we saw a food recall that affected meat sold across the Western Slope. Fortunately, that case closed back in February.

However, there is something else that is affecting what we eat here in Colorado, and it has nothing to do with bacteria. 

Bird Flu is Breaking Out Amongst Cattle in Colorado, and Public Health Officials are Concerned

Throughout Colorado, there’s been a major outbreak of H5N1, commonly known as bird flu, through the state’s cattle. At the moment, it has only affected dairy cows in the state.

According to Colorado Public Radio, while people are generally safe for now, there are generally some concerns for people. 

For the most part, the pasteurization of milk typically kills the virus. However, CPR found that there’s a loophole through programs called herdshare, wherein people are able to consume raw milk by owning a share of the cow’s milk that they can purchase.

It is through raw milk that the virus can spread, and while it is unlikely in Colorado given the laws in place, through herdshare, it is indeed possible.

According to CBS News Colorado, the Colorado Agricultural Commission is now requiring that all cattle that is transported between state lines to be tested.

What is the Situation Like for the Rest of the Country?

At the moment, this situation has become a cause for concern in the United States as a whole. 

In total, nine states have been affected, which includes Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Texas, Idaho, South Dakota, Michigan, Ohio, and North Carolina. Colorado is the most recent of these states to be added to the list.  

While eating dairy and beef will likely not cause any infections, the concerns come more from the people who work with infected cattle.

In Texas, workers are starting to contract the illness from sick cows. 

What Are Symptoms of Bird Flu, and What Should I Do If I’m Infected?

According to the CDC, symptoms can vary from quite mild to severe. 

On the mild side, you might just feel like you have a cold with some upper-respiratory issues. 

On the severe end of the spectrum, you will have a fever over 100 degrees, cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, muscle aches, and shortness of breath. 

More seriously, it could possibly cause pneumonia that may require you to go to the hospital.

If you are feeling any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor to figure out what treatment works best for you.