Utah Natural Meat and Milk has been identified as the source of the unpasteurized raw milk that has affected individuals in the state by investigators.
According to the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, at least 14 persons have developed Campylobacter illnesses. One hospitalized patient has been discharged. Patients vary in age from two to 73.
According to the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food, the involved dairy is located in West Jordan.
Only two people reported consuming raw milk before feeling ill, according to the health department. The agency continues to advise individuals to only drink pasteurized milk.
“Since 2009, there have been 25 documented outbreaks of Campylobacter infection linked to raw milk consumption in Utah.” According to a warning from the Salt Lake County health department, “these outbreaks have resulted in 295 people becoming ill.”
The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Food and Drug Administration, and the vast majority of state and local health authorities throughout the US all advise against drinking unpasteurized, raw milk and products prepared from it. Pathogens found in raw dairy products include Listeria, E. coli, campylobacter, Salmonella, and hepatitis A.
Contaminated raw milk and goods derived from it do not seem, smell, or taste terrible, and people cannot identify infections in them without laboratory testing.
In Utah, it is unlawful for stores to sell raw milk. Farms that offer raw milk to customers must get specific permits.
Concerning Campylobacter infections
Outbreaks have been linked to unpasteurized dairy products, polluted water, poultry, and vegetables, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. People might also get sick after coming into touch with dog or cat excrement. Campylobacter transmission from person to person is infrequent.
Many individuals recover in a week, but Campylobacter infection may cause arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS).
Azithromycin and fluoroquinolones, such as ciprofloxacin, are often used as treatments, however fluoroquinolone resistance is widespread.
Campylobacter infection symptoms often appear two to five days after exposure and include diarrhea (sometimes bloody), stomach discomfort, fever, nausea, and vomiting. More serious infections, such as bloodstream infection and symptoms resembling acute appendicitis or ulcerative colitis, may develop.
