- The CDC and FDA warn of an E. Coli outbreak linked to Raw Farm brand cheddar cheese, sickening 10 people nationwide
- Ten cases were reported in California, Utah and Colorado between mid-October 2023 and the end of January, with four individuals hospitalized
- Consumers are advised to throw away or return the cheese, wash affected items and seek medical attention if severe symptoms occur, with strict hygiene practices
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are warning of an outbreak of E. Coli that has already sickened 10 people nationwide who ate contaminated Raw Farm brand cheddar cheese.
The 10 cases of people infected with E. coli occurred in California, where four people became ill, in Utah, where there were two cases, and in Colorado, where three became ill. However, the product was sold nationwide.
The onset of the diseases occurred between mid-October and the end of January.
The people were so ill after eating the contaminated cheese that four people ended up in the hospital.
One person developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious condition that can potentially lead to kidney failure. Children under the age of five are at greatest risk of this development occurring.
The CDC and FDA have warned of an E. Coli outbreak linked to Raw Farm brand cheddar cheese, sickening 10 people across the country
Consumers are advised to throw away or return the cheese, wash affected items and seek medical attention if severe symptoms occur, with strict hygiene practices
The actual number of people affected is likely much higher than reported, with many simply dealing with the discomfort in their own homes rather than going to the doctor or seeking medical attention or having undergone an E. coli test.
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 also not have come to light yet, as such confirmations typically take three to four weeks.
The outbreak affected both original and jalapeno cheddar cheese, made by Raw Farm, and includes both blocks and packets of grated cheese.
Customers who purchased the cheese are advised to either tThrow away the products or return them to the store where they were purchased.
Objects and surfaces that may have come into contact with the contaminated cheese should be washed with hot soapy water or a dishwasher.
The actual number of people affected is likely much higher than reported, with many simply dealing with the discomfort in their own homes rather than going to the doctor or seeking medical attention or having undergone an E. coli test. Pictured, E.coli bacteria (file)
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), along with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), are warning of an E. Coli outbreak that has sickened 10 people so far
Victims of the deadly bacteria can become seriously ill, with cases caused by eating contaminated food including severe stomach pain, bloody diarrhea and even kidney failure.
Typical symptoms are stomach cramps, diarrhea and sometimes fever. About half get bloody diarrhea.
These usually appear three to four days after the infection, but can take up to two weeks to occur.
Although some E.coli bug can be found in the intestines of most people, it poses a particular risk to the elderly, diabetics, and people who are dehydrated.
Others where the threat from the bacteria is greater are people who use a urinary catheter, people with an intravenous device, people with gallbladder or kidney stones, and people with prostate problems.
A cheesemaker cuts the curd in a barrel during production (archive 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 can increase the risk of complications for the victim. They say the symptoms can usually be taken care of at home.
But if you or your child have bloody diarrhea, it is recommended that you contact your doctor.
Anti-diarrheal medications should also be avoided as this can mean the poison stays in the body longer.
If you or your family have any of the symptoms, you should avoid sharing towels or diaper changing mats and should not leave dirty items in the kitchen.
Instead, make sure you practice complete hygiene: wash your hands thoroughly with warm, soapy water, wash dirty items separately from everything else, wipe surfaces with hot water and dish soap, and use thick household bleach where possible.