Minimal Health Risks from Inactive H5N1 Virus in Pasteurized Milk Confirmed by Recent Research
Recent research confirms that inactivated H5N1 influenza virus in pasteurized milk poses minimal health risks, reinforcing the importance of proper milk pasteurization during outbreaks.
Recent scientific findings from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital reveal that pasteurized milk contaminated with inactive H5N1 influenza virus poses little to no health risk to consumers. Although proteins and genetic fragments of the virus can be detected in pasteurized dairy products, the inactivation process effectively neutralizes their infectious potential.
The study specifically examined whether consuming pasteurized milk containing viral components could influence immune responses or increase susceptibility to influenza infections. Researchers found that such exposure did not significantly affect the immune system's ability to handle subsequent flu viruses, indicating minimal health concern.
Despite the safety of pasteurized milk, the research highlights the dangers of unpasteurized milk, which, if contaminated with live H5N1 virus, can cause severe disease and death, as demonstrated in mouse models. Proper pasteurization is emphasized as crucial in eliminating infectious viral particles from milk. The study also considered the impact of pre-existing immunity, finding that prior infection or vaccination against influenza provides robust protection, regardless of viral exposure through contaminated milk.
The findings support current food safety practices and vaccination strategies, reinforcing that pasteurized milk is safe for consumption even during outbreaks of H5N1 in dairy cattle. However, ongoing vigilance and strict adherence to pasteurization standards remain essential to prevent the risk of zoonotic transmission.
For further details, see the full study published in Science Advances: [DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aeb3906]. Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-inactive-h5n1-influenza-virus-pasteurized.html
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Rethinking Contact Sports During Pregnancy: Emerging Evidence Supports Safer Participation
New research challenges traditional views on contact sports during pregnancy, revealing low injury risks and highlighting benefits for mental health, suggesting a need for updated guidelines.
Early Childhood Brain Wiring as a Predictor for Future ADHD Risk
New research suggests that the neural wiring of children's brains in early childhood can help predict future attention challenges, including ADHD. This breakthrough highlights the importance of early neural development and potential for targeted interventions.
Groundbreaking Achievement: First Successful Human Bladder Transplant Performed in the U.S.
Surgeons at UCLA have successfully performed the world's first human bladder transplant, providing new hope for patients with severe bladder conditions.
Potential of Weight Loss Interventions to Reduce Obesity-Related Cancer Risks in Diabetic Patients
Weight loss treatments, including medication and surgery, may lower the risk of obesity-related cancers in people with diabetes, according to recent research. A large study from the University of Leicester highlights the cancer-reducing potential of therapies like semaglutide and bariatric surgery.