- CDC and FDA warn of E. Coli outbreak linked to Raw Farm brand cheddar cheese, sickening ten people nationwide
- Ten cases were reported in California, Utah and Colorado between mid-October 2023 and the end of January, with four people hospitalized.
- Consumers are advised to discard or return cheese, wash affected items and seek medical attention in case of severe symptoms, with strict hygiene practices.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warn of an E. Coli outbreak that has already sickened ten people nationwide who ate Raw brand cheddar cheese Contaminated farm.
The ten cases of people infected with E. coli occurred in California, where four people became ill, Utah, which had two cases, and Colorado, where three became ill, however, the product was sold throughout the country.
The appearance of diseases occurred between mid-October and the end of January.
The individuals were so sick after eating the contaminated cheese that four people ended up in the hospital.
A person developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious condition that can lead to kidney failure. Children under five are most at risk of this developing.
The CDC and FDA have warned of an E. Coli outbreak linked to Raw Farm brand cheddar cheese, sickening ten people nationwide.
Consumers are advised to discard or return cheese, wash affected items and seek medical attention in case of severe symptoms, with strict hygiene practices.
The actual number of people affected is likely much higher than reported and many are simply coping with the discomfort in their own home rather than going to the doctor or seeking medical help or have undergone E. coli testing.
The CDC says the outbreak may also have spread beyond the states where cases have occurred so far. No fatalities have been reported.
Some recent cases may not have come to light yet, as it typically takes three to four weeks for such confirmations to be made.
The outbreak affected both original cheddar and jalapeño cheese made by Raw Farm and includes both blocks and packets of grated cheese.
Customers who bought the cheese are recommended to tDiscard the products or return them to the store where you purchased them.
Items and surfaces that may have come into contact with contaminated cheese should be washed with hot soapy water or in a dishwasher.
The actual number of people affected is likely much higher than reported and many are simply coping with the discomfort in their own home rather than going to the doctor or seeking medical help or have undergone E. coli testing. In the photo, E.coli bacteria (file)
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) along with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warn of an E. Coli outbreak that has so far sickened 10 people
Victims of this deadly bacteria can become seriously ill, and cases caused by eating contaminated food include severe stomach pains, bloody diarrhea, and even kidney failure.
Typical symptoms include stomach cramps, diarrhea and occasionally fever. About half will have bloody diarrhea.
They usually appear three to four days after infection, but it can take up to two weeks before they emerge.
While an amount of the E. coli virus can be found in the intestines of most people, it poses a particular risk to older people, diabetics, and dehydrated people.
Other people whose threat from the bacteria is increased are people who use a urinary catheter, people with an intravenous device, those who have gallbladder or kidney stones, and people with prostate problems.
A cheesemaker cuts curds in a vat during production (file photo)
A herd of dairy cattle is seen in lush green fields.
Doctors warn those suffering from these symptoms not to take antibiotics, as they may increase the victim’s risk of complications, and say the symptoms can usually be treated at home.
But if you or your child has bloody diarrhea, it is recommended that you contact your doctor.
Anti-diarrhea medications should also be avoided, as this may mean the toxin stays in the body longer.
If you or your family have any of the symptoms, you should avoid sharing towels or changing tables, and you should not leave dirty items in the kitchen.
Instead, you should make sure you are completely hygienic: wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, wash dirty items separately from everything else, clean surfaces with hot water and detergent, and use thick household bleach when possible.