Health officials are currently investigating a multi-state E. coli O157:H7 outbreak linked to various raw milk cheddar cheese products. As of February 16, 2024, a total of 10 confirmed infections have been reported from four states, including California (4 cases), Colorado (3 cases), Texas (1 case), and Utah (2 cases).
The outbreak was announced just yesterday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA), making it the first major shiga toxin-producing E. coli outbreak identified so far this year.
Cheese Recall Expected Soon
The contaminated cheese was manufactured and distributed nationwide by Raw Farm LLC under the RAW FARM brand name. Available in original and jalapeño flavors, the cheese was sold in shredded packages and blocks of all sizes.
Illnesses linked to the outbreak started between October 18, 2023 and January 29, 2024. The last illness onset date provides a clue that the outbreak is likely still ongoing, as it often takes 2-4 weeks between when someone gets sick and when the infection gets reported to public health agencies.
So far, four people have been hospitalized, including one who developed life-threatening hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a severe complication that can lead to kidney failure. No deaths have been reported yet.
State and federal health officials determined the cheese was the likely outbreak source after interviewing sick individuals about the foods they consumed before falling ill. Six out of eight people infected reported eating RAW FARM brand raw cheddar cheese in the week prior.
In response, Raw Farm has agreed to initiate a recall of their products. However, a full recall notice has not been issued yet by the FDA. Consumers should discard any RAW FARM brand cheese in their home immediately.
For those impacted by the outbreak, a number of law firms are currently investigating potential legal action, including Ron Simon & Associates. Anyone sickened after eating the recalled RAW FARM products should consult a specialized foodborne illness attorney to learn about their rights.
What is E. coli O157:H7?
E. coli refers to a species of bacteria that normally lives in the intestines of people and animals. Although most types are harmless, certain strains can cause illness.
Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), including the O157:H7 serotype, are more likely to cause severe disease. The bacteria produce Shiga toxins that can damage red blood cells and cause kidney injury.
E. coli O157:H7 spreads through contaminated food or water. People may get infected after eating contaminated ground beef, raw dairy products, lettuce, or other leafy greens. Outbreaks typically happen when these foods become contaminated with animal feces at some point during processing or preparation.
What Are the Symptoms?
- Severe stomach cramps
- Diarrhea, often bloody
- Vomiting
- Fever above 102°F
Symptoms tend to start 3-4 days after ingestion and last around 5-7 days. However, E. coli O157:H7 can also trigger kidney complications like HUS in 5–10% of victims.
Anyone experiencing severe symptoms should seek medical care immediately. Prompt treatment can help prevent long-term health issues.
In children, warning signs requiring emergency care include:
- Dehydration
- Lasting or constant diarrhea
- Blood in the urine
- Little or no urine output
- Unresponsiveness
How Can Outbreaks Be Prevented?
Practicing good food safety habits at home can help prevent illnesses and potentially larger outbreaks. Follow these key guidelines:
- Wash hands and surfaces often
- Prevent cross-contamination between raw meat/poultry and other foods
- Drink pasteurized dairy only
- Wash fruits and veggies, especially leafy greens
Supporting stricter regulations around manure use and water quality on farms may also reduce contamination risks. Despite being preventable, thousands of Americans are hospitalized each year from foodborne illnesses.
We will continue monitoring this outbreak and provide updates as more information is released. In the meantime, discard any RAW FARM brand cheese and consult a doctor if you have symptoms.
