Bird flu is spreading to cows

• Testing for the "highly pathogenic avian influenza," more commonly referred to as the bird flu, is also happening in cow herds in New Mexico and Idaho and two added herds in Texas.
• Symptoms include decreased lactation and low appetite.

Threat level: Federal authorities said there is no concern of a related consumer health risk. "Pasteurization is required for any milk entering interstate commerce," the FDA said.

• The agency also said milk loss from sick cows is "too limited to have a major impact on supply." That means "there should be no impact on the price of milk or other dairy products," the FDA said.

Yes, but: The FDA has limited research on whether the flu can be transmitted through raw, unpasteurized milk or other dairy products that use raw milk, like cheese.

• The agency recommends against buying and selling such products when cows show signs of illness even if the cheese will undergo the required 60-day aging process.

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