Madison Reporter

Experts from the University of Wisconsin–Madison are available for interviews regarding the spread of avian flu H5N1 to mammals, including cattle, and its presence in grocery store milk. Keith Poulsen, an expert in zoonotic disease, is tracking the highly pathogenic strain of avian influenza in dairy herds and can discuss the disease's spread and what Wisconsinites should watch for in their herds. Another expert, Thomas Friedrich, studies how viruses from animals could cross over to humans and is available to discuss the potential human risk from H5N1. David O’Connor, an expert on novel viral pathogen emergence, can provide insights into the current risk of bird flu to human health.

Erin Lashnits, a zoonotic disease expert, is available to discuss the risk of H5N1 to pets, while Peter Halfmann, an expert in zoonotic viral diseases, can shed light on the virus's behavior in milk during pasteurization. Additionally, Andrew W. Stevens, an expert in agricultural production, consumer food demand, and food security, can discuss the potential impact of H5N1 on products like eggs and milk.

The experts are part of ongoing efforts to minimize the risk to human health and protect the agricultural sector in Wisconsin. The University of Wisconsin–Madison is closely monitoring the spread of the virus and analyzing infected raw milk to understand potential risks. Researchers are working to determine how the virus spreads among mammals, beyond respiratory means, and its prevalence in dairy herds.

For media inquiries or interviews with the experts, contact the following individuals:

- Keith Poulsen: keith.poulsen@wvdl.wisc.edu

- Thomas Friedrich: tfriedri@wisc.edu

- David O’Connor: dhoconno@wisc.edu

- Erin Lashnits: lashnits@wisc.edu

- Peter Halfmann: pjhalfma@wisc.edu

- Andrew W. Stevens: awstevens@wisc.edu

More experts on news and current events can be found on the UW–Madison Experts Database.