Identification of and Response to Influenza A(H5) in Off-the-Shelf Raw Milk-Santa Clara County, California, November-December 2024

Clin Infect Dis. 2026 Feb 9;82(1):e47-e48. doi: 10.1093/cid/ciaf420.

Abstract

In November-December 2024, the County of Santa Clara Public Health Department detected influenza A and A(H5) virus in unpasteurized milk sold in the county. A(H5N1) virus surveillance of off-the-shelf unpasteurized milk led to early detection and recall of potentially infectious products that prompted state agencies' verification and subsequent regulatory action.

Keywords: H5N1; avian influenza; surveillance; unpasteurized milk.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • California / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype* / isolation & purification
  • Influenza A virus* / isolation & purification
  • Influenza, Human* / epidemiology
  • Influenza, Human* / virology
  • Milk* / virology