(Radio Iowa) – Researchers discovered high concentrations of the H-5-N-1 virus in the raw milk and udders of infected cows after it spilled over into dairy cattle last year. A study shows the mammary glands of other animals, and humans, could be suitable hosts for the bird flu virus. Iowa State University veterinary pathology professor Todd Bell was part of the research team that discovered the “lock-and-key” mechanism allowing the virus to infect cells in cow udders.

Rahul Nelli (RAH-ool mel-EE) is lead author of the study that found the same receptors in the mammary glands of humans as there are in animals.

Bell says their findings show a potential health risk for farm workers and consumers of raw milk and cheese from goats and sheep.

Bell says more research and widespread testing are needed to understand how the virus spreads across species and through the environment. This could help prevent bird flu from evolving into something more dangerous for people.