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Bird flu, also called H5N1, has been detected in nearly 700 herds of cattle from coast to coast, and while there have been a few cases of it then spreading to folks who work with those cattle or have come in contact with infected wild birds, it has, thankfully, not spread widely to humans. To make sure that it doesn't, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has ordered dairy farmers to test their cattle for the virus. And it is urging folks to avoid raw milk that may contain it.

Grocery store milk is pasteurized (most large-scale pasteurization heats milk to 161 F for not less than 15 seconds, followed by rapid cooling). That kills transmissible infections in raw milk, including tuberculosis and bird flu. But a new study in Science reveals that a single mutation in the virus could let it target humans!

Fortunately, the scientists also say that other genetic mutations would likely be required for the virus to be able to be transmitted between people. Nonetheless, it's essential to avoid possible exposure to H5N1 (like from raw milk) and for the scientific community to continue to monitor for genetic changes to the virus so another epidemic can be avoided.

In the meantime, bolster your immunity to viral infections by managing stress with exercise, meditation and good sleep habits; staying well-hydrated; and getting a steady supply of vitamins C, A and D from fresh fruits and vegetables, fatty fish and 100% whole grains.

For more tips, sign up for the free newsletter at LongevityPlaybook.com.

Dr. Mike Roizen is the founder of www.longevityplaybook.com, and Dr. Mehmet Oz is global advisor to www.iHerb.com, the world's leading online health store. Roizen and Oz are chief wellness officer emeritus at Cleveland Clinic and professor emeritus at Columbia University, respectively. Together they have written 11 New York Times bestsellers (four No. 1's).

(c)2024 Michael Roizen, M.D.

Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

(c) 2024 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.