FDA Issues Statement on USDA Announcement of Positive BSE Test Result
This week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed that a dairy cow in California tested positive for atypical bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE, or "mad cow" disease). The USDA also confirmed the cow did not enter the animal feed or human food supply. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)Â is working with federal and state authorities to further investigate this case.
The FDA says it is is confident in the effectiveness of the existing animal feed safeguards designed to prevent the spread of BSE through feed. Although current science suggests that atypical cases of BSE, such as this one, are unlikely to be transmitted through animal feed, the FDA will work with the USDA to complete a thorough epidemiological investigation. Importantly, scientific research indicates that BSE cannot be transmitted in cow's milk.
The FDA says it will continue to work closely with the USDA and state officials on this public health issue and will provide updates as information becomes available.
Outbreak Detection, Patient Protection: The Legal Upside of Genomics in Infection Prevention
May 21st 2025A string of infections following routine knee surgeries in Tennessee has escalated into litigation, raising questions about how—and when—health care facilities should detect outbreaks. As genomic surveillance gains traction in infection prevention, some fear it could increase legal risk. In reality, it may offer hospitals their strongest legal defense.
Silent Saboteurs: Managing Endotoxins for Sepsis-Free Sterilization
Invisible yet deadly, endotoxins evade traditional sterilization methods, posing significant risks during routine surgeries. Understanding and addressing their threat is critical for patient safety.
