US issues order mandating bird flu testing of milk supply

The U.S. has mandated testing of the national milk supply for bird flu, according to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. The virus has affected over 500 dairy herds in California and more than 700 nationwide since March.

This raises concerns for farmers, the milk supply, and potential human health risks. Nearly 60 people have contracted the virus, primarily workers at affected farms, but symptoms have been mild. The CDC states the risk to the general public remains low. The USDA plans to start national milk testing after calls for stronger virus surveillance.