When Lars Larson invited me to discuss the recent outbreak of H5N1 bird flu in cows, I knew we’d be diving into more than a public health crisis: It's a stark example of government dysfunction. This strain of avian influenza, which had previously affected birds and some species of mammals, first appeared in cattle in Texas and Kansas last spring. Despite its clear potential to spread, the USDA failed to act swiftly, delaying testing and containment measures, and perpetrating what amounted to a cover-up. In California, fatality rates have reached 15%.
During my conversation with Lars, I emphasized the risks of raw milk consumption, which remains popular in some circles despite the dangers. Pasteurization degrades and neutralizes the virus, but raw milk consumers are playing with fire—H5N1 adds a new layer of risk to an already unsafe choice.
The more significant issue, as I explained, is structural. The USDA’s dual role as regulator and promoter of the dairy industry creates a glaring conflict of interest. I suggested a streamlined, independent response mechanism akin to a 911 system for agricultural emergencies. Without it, our food supply and public health remain unnecessarily at risk.
You can hear the whole conversation here.
Looking for a deeper dive?
USDA's Dereliction in Containing Bird Flu Could Cause Calamitous Pandemic (Part 1)
How Bureaucratic Infighting, Dairy Industry Lobbying Have Worsened H5N1 Bird Flu Outbreak (Part 2)
Henry I. Miller, MS, MD
Henry I. Miller, MS, MD, is the Glenn Swogger Distinguished Fellow at the American Council on Science and Health. His research focuses on public policy toward science, technology, and medicine, encompassing a number of areas, including pharmaceutical development, genetic engineering, models for regulatory reform, precision medicine, and the emergence of new viral diseases. Dr. Miller served for fifteen years at the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in a number of posts, including as the founding director of the Office of Biotechnology.
