11 Sickened in Illinois From Unpasteurized Milk

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) just put out an urgent warning to residents after eleven people fell ill with a dangerous infection linked to what they consumed.

Infections Linked to Unpasteurized Dairy Products

According to a press release from IDPH, residents are urged to avoid drinking raw milk after nearly a dozen people across the state became ill from Campylobacter infections traced to unpasteurized dairy.

The illnesses appear linked to raw milk from a common source, and the producer is cooperating with state investigators to notify customers.

Dangers of Consuming Raw Milk

According to the report, the Illinois Department of Public Health says that raw milk is milk that has not undergone pasteurization. This process uses heat to kill harmful germs and bacteria.

Pasteurization is one of the greatest public health successes of the last century. It helps keep milk and dairy products safe for everyone to enjoy. Raw milk skips this important step and can carry dangerous germs that may cause serious illness, especially in young children, older people, and individuals with chronic medical conditions. -IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra

Symptoms and Safety Recommendations

Campylobacter infection can cause severe diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, and in rare cases, may lead to arthritis or Guillain-Barré syndrome. IDPH advises anyone who has consumed raw milk and develops these symptoms to contact their healthcare provider.

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While Illinois requires certain raw milk testing, specific pathogen testing for bacteria like Campylobacter, E. coli, and Salmonella is not mandated.

Officials recommend consumers stick to pasteurized milk, refrigerate perishables at 40 degrees or colder, and discard expired or spoiled dairy products to prevent illness.

CLICK HERE to find out more about raw milk and your health.