Minnesota raw milk outbreak traced back by officials.

The Minnesota Department of Health Investigates Salmonella Outbreak

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is currently investigating an outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium that has affected five children in the Twin Cities metro area.

Unpasteurized Milk Linked to Illnesses

Two families reported that their children consumed unpasteurized milk before falling ill. Although information is not available from the other affected families, laboratory analysis confirmed that the bacteria from all the patients were identical. This strongly suggests that the source of infection is the same.

Age and Hospitalizations

The affected patients range in age from 3 months to 10 years. Their illnesses occurred between the end of June and early July. One of the children required hospitalization.

Dangers of Unpasteurized Milk

Unpasteurized milk, also known as raw milk, poses serious health risks as it may contain harmful germs from fecal contamination. These germs can include Campylobacter, E. coli, Cryptosporidium, and Salmonella. It is important to note that even apparently healthy animals can carry these germs and transmit them through their milk. Therefore, consuming any unpasteurized milk is considered risky, regardless of how clean the source appears to be.

Signs and Symptoms of Salmonella Infection

Individuals infected with Salmonella Typhimurium typically experience symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps within six hours to several days after consuming contaminated food or having contact with infected animals. The illness usually lasts for about four to seven days. However, some cases may be severe enough to require hospitalization. Children under 5 years old, adults over 65, and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk of developing severe illness and requiring hospital care.

Prevention and Call to Action

The MDH is currently working to identify the source of the unpasteurized milk that caused these Salmonella infections and is taking steps to prevent further illnesses. In order to avoid becoming sick, individuals are advised not to consume raw or unpasteurized milk. If any gastrointestinal illness is experienced after consuming unpasteurized milk, it is important to contact a healthcare provider for further guidance.

Reporting Cases

In an effort to gather more information and prevent additional cases, the MDH is urging anyone who experienced gastrointestinal illness shortly after consuming unpasteurized milk at the end of June or beginning of July to fill out a confidential online survey or email health.foodill@state.mn.us.