The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced on Mar. 16 that it is investigating a multistate outbreak of E. coli infections connected to raw cheddar cheese sold by Raw Farm. The CDC, along with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and public health officials in California, Florida, and Texas, are working together to determine the source and extent of the outbreak.
According to the CDC, seven people have been infected with the outbreak strain of E. coli across these three states. Two individuals have been hospitalized, but no deaths have been reported so far. More than half of those affected are children under the age of five.
The CDC advises consumers who have any of the affected cheeses at home to consider not eating them. “Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any severe E. coli symptoms,” the agency said in its alert. It also recommends washing surfaces and containers that may have come into contact with these cheeses using hot soapy water or a dishwasher.
Symptoms of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli infection typically include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting, usually starting three to four days after exposure. Most people recover within five to seven days without treatment, but some may develop serious kidney problems known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Signs that someone may be developing HUS include decreased urination, extreme fatigue, and loss of pink color in cheeks or inside lower eyelids.
The CDC encourages anyone with questions about cases in specific states to contact their state health department for more information.
