In Florida, the state Health Department reported on Monday (August 4) that an outbreak of E. coli and campylobacter bacteria is linked to raw cow’s milk, leading to 21 infections, including 6 children under the age of 10.
According to the Florida Health Department, this outbreak has resulted in 7 hospitalized individuals, with two experiencing “serious complications” that could lead to kidney failure. Residents are advised to make wise decisions when consuming raw cow’s milk as it may contain bacteria that can cause fatal infections.
The Florida Health Department stated that the contaminated raw milk causing the outbreak is from a farm in Florida, although the specific farm has not been disclosed.
In their announcement on Monday, the agency expressed concerns about the hygiene standards at the farm due to the higher number of cases: “Due to the higher number of cases, the hygiene standards at the farm are particularly worrisome.”
Despite the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommending the consumption of pasteurized milk to protect one’s health, the popularity of raw cow’s milk has been on the rise.
Federal public health officials warn that consuming unpasteurized milk exposes people to risks of various bacterial infections, with children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems facing higher risks.
The CDC points out that pasteurized milk provides the same nutritional value without the risks associated with consuming raw cow’s milk. Pasteurization has significantly reduced milkborne diseases since the early 20th century.
Campylobacter bacteria are a common gastrointestinal pathogen that can cause diarrhea, cramps, vomiting, and fever, with most patients recovering without treatment.
Although E. coli is usually harmless, severe infections can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and kidney failure.
Selling raw cow’s milk for human consumption is illegal in Florida, yet it is legal to sell raw cow’s milk for pets. Some individuals circumvent this regulation by purchasing milk intended for pets or animal feed for their own consumption.