Bird flu in dairy cattle is raising fresh public health concerns across the United States. On November 2, 2026, health officials reported a Washington state resident’s death following exposure to infected dairy cattle. USDA also confirmed H5N1 in an Indiana dairy herd. These developments are renewing questions about bird flu dairy safety, especially as consumers purchase milk, cheese, butter, and other dairy products during winter.
However, health agencies continue to distinguish between occupational exposure and the risks associated with commercially processed dairy products. Pasteurized milk remains considered safe for consumers.
Why Is Bird Flu Affecting Dairy Workers?
Highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly known as H5N1, has spread among wild birds, poultry, and several mammal species. Since 2024, the virus has also infected dairy cattle across multiple US states.
Farm workers may face exposure when milking infected cows, handling contaminated equipment, or coming into contact with animal secretions. The CDC says symptoms in people can include eye redness, fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, and breathing difficulties.
The recent Washington death followed exposure to infected cattle. Officials have not identified evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission. The CDC continues to assess the risk to the general public as low, while recognizing higher risks for people working directly with infected animals.
Read the CDC’s guidance for dairy and farm workers for information about protective equipment and exposure precautions.
Is Commercial Milk Safe to Drink?
Federal health agencies say consumers do not need to avoid commercially sold pasteurized milk because of the outbreak. Pasteurization uses controlled heat to inactivate harmful microorganisms, including H5N1.
The FDA has tested pasteurized dairy products and conducted laboratory research into the virus. Its findings support the conclusion that commercial pasteurization effectively inactivates H5N1. Milk from sick cows is also diverted from the commercial supply or destroyed.
Consumers can review the FDA’s dairy cattle investigation and milk safety updates for the latest information.
Why Raw Milk Remains a Concern
Raw milk has not undergone pasteurization. It can contain dangerous bacteria and viruses that cause foodborne illness. During the H5N1 outbreak, the virus has been detected in unpasteurized milk from infected cattle.
Researchers are still studying the possibility of human infection through consumption of contaminated raw milk. Meanwhile, existing evidence shows that raw milk can carry other pathogens, including Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria.
The CDC’s raw milk and H5N1 guidance recommends choosing pasteurized milk and dairy products. FDA information also explains the potential dangers of raw milk.
What Should Consumers Do This Winter?
Consumers should continue purchasing pasteurized milk, cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products from reputable retailers. Check product labels when purchasing specialty cheeses or farm-direct products.
People who work with dairy cattle should follow workplace safety guidance, use appropriate personal protective equipment, and report symptoms after potential exposure. Anyone experiencing symptoms after contact with infected animals should contact a healthcare professional and mention the exposure.
USDA continues monitoring dairy herds through its avian influenza response and surveillance program. Consumers can also follow CDC updates on the current H5N1 situation.
Stay Informed, Not Alarmed
Bird flu’s spread among dairy cattle and recent worker infections deserve continued attention. However, the evidence does not currently support avoiding commercially pasteurized dairy products. Consumers should avoid raw milk, follow food safety guidance, and monitor updates from public health agencies. Protecting workers and maintaining effective surveillance remain essential to controlling the outbreak.
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