282
The USDA is collecting samples of ground beef from retail stores to test for viral particles of the avian influenza in states where there have been infected dairy herds. The ag department is also collecting beef muscle samples for testing at slaughter facilities of dairy cattle than have been condemned due to an outbreak.
The USDA said that it found avian influenza particles in the lung tissue of a dairy cow that was sent to slaughter from an infected herd, although asymptomatic.
There is still no report of bird flu in beef cattle, and the ag department remains confident that the meat supply is safe. They recommend consumers properly handle raw meats and cook to a safe internal temperature.
###
Reuters/American Ag Network
