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FLORIDA - Florida health officials are alerting the public to the dangers of drinking raw milk after 21 individuals, including six children under 10, fell ill due to E. coli and campylobacter bacteria.
Seven people were hospitalized, with two facing severe complications.
The contaminated milk is linked to an unidentified farm, which distributed its products in Northeast and Central Florida.
The Florida Department of Health has raised concerns about the farm’s sanitation practices, which may have contributed to the outbreak.
While selling raw milk for human consumption is illegal in Florida, it can still be sold as pet food if appropriately labeled.
Despite this, raw milk's popularity has surged in recent years due to its promotion by health influencers.
However, officials warn that drinking raw milk can lead to serious health risks, including bacterial infections from E. coli, campylobacter, listeria, and salmonella, which can cause symptoms like stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea.
In severe cases, raw milk consumption can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which may cause kidney failure.
The CDC and FDA have long emphasized that pasteurized milk is the safer option, as pasteurization eliminates harmful bacteria.
Since 1987, 143 outbreaks have been linked to raw milk products, resulting in serious health issues and deaths.
The Florida Department of Health urges caution, noting that risks can vary depending on the source and handling of raw milk.