A recent study in the Journal of Dairy Science looked at milk gland tissue from several mammals. The researchers tested pigs, sheep, goats, beef cattle, alpacas and humans to see if the tissue had receptors for influenza.
They found sialic acid, a sugar on cell surfaces that helps influenza attach and enter cells. The study followed the spread of H5N1 to dairy cattle in spring 2024. In infected dairy herds, sick cows can produce milk that contains the virus. The USDA is testing raw cow milk samples nationwide. Pasteurization kills influenza, so store-bought milk is safe. Researchers say raw milk from other mammals is also a concern.
Difficult words
- receptor — cell protein that receives signals or virusesreceptors
- gland — body part that makes and sends out fluids
- sialic acid — a sugar on cell surfaces in animals
- pasteurization — process that heats milk to kill germs
- infect — to make a person or animal sickinfected
- attach — to join or stick onto another surface
- influenza — a viral disease that affects the respiratory system
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Would you drink raw milk after reading this article? Why or why not?
- How does pasteurization change milk, according to the article?
- Which of the animals tested in the study do you find most surprising? Why?
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