Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Raw Milk from California Farm

Largest Reported Salmonella Outbreak in the US in the Past Decade

A recent report from California health officials has revealed that dozens of salmonella illnesses have been linked to raw milk from a California farm, resulting in the largest reported salmonella outbreak linked to raw milk in the US in the past decade.

The Outbreak

As of February, at least 165 people were sickened with salmonella infections tied to products from Raw Farm, of Fresno, California, according to newly released state records. The outbreak is considered the largest reported salmonella outbreak linked to raw milk in the US in the past decade.

Investigation and Recall

State and local health officials had not updated the public about the full scope of the salmonella outbreak since October, when officials in San Diego reported about a dozen cases. At the time, Raw Farm issued a voluntary recall of milk and heavy cream sold between October 11 and November 6. However, cases continued to mount, and investigators matched samples from sick people to samples from the farm and a retail store.

Health Risks

The bird flu virus, known as Type A H5N1, has been detected in more than 140 US dairy herds, and federal health officials say the virus has been detected in high levels in raw milk. Health officials warn the public to avoid unpasteurized milk due to the risk of infection.

Symptoms and Impact

The symptoms of salmonella infection include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. In this outbreak, nearly 40% of illnesses were reported in children younger than 5, and 20 people were hospitalized. No deaths were reported.

Raw Farm’s Response

Mark McAfee, owner of Raw Farm, acknowledged that his products were part of the outbreak. He stated that a single cow was infected with salmonella last fall and later removed from the herd. He also said that he put additional testing protocols in place in response to the outbreak.

Personal Stories

Jessie McGee, 35, of San Pedro, California, said she plans to sue Raw Farm because her 6-year-old daughter was hospitalized in October with a confirmed infection tied to the outbreak. McGee had read about supposed health benefits of raw milk online and started drinking Raw Farm products and feeding them to her daughter and her 2-year-old twins. All three children and McGee fell ill, but her older daughter’s symptoms were most severe.

Conclusion

The salmonella outbreak linked to raw milk from a California farm serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety and the risks associated with consuming unpasteurized milk. Health officials warn the public to avoid unpasteurized milk due to the risk of infection, and it is crucial for consumers to be aware of the potential health risks.

FAQs

Q: What is the source of the salmonella outbreak?
A: The source of the outbreak is raw milk from Raw Farm, a California farm.

Q: How many people were affected by the outbreak?
A: At least 165 people were sickened with salmonella infections tied to products from Raw Farm.

Q: What are the symptoms of salmonella infection?
A: The symptoms of salmonella infection include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps.

Q: Is the outbreak still ongoing?
A: The outbreak ended on May 4, according to California health officials.

Q: What can consumers do to avoid getting sick?
A: Consumers can avoid getting sick by avoiding unpasteurized milk and ensuring that any dairy products they consume are pasteurized.

Q: Can I still consume raw milk?
A: No, it is not recommended to consume raw milk due to the risk of infection.

Author: fortune.com

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