Idaho Investigates Spike In Illnesses Related To Raw Milk Consumption

University of Minnesota

Idaho’s Department of Health and Welfare (DHW) said it’s investigating a spate of illnesses tied to raw, or unpasteurized, milk. Since May 15, department officials said almost 60 people have been identified as having illnesses after drinking raw milk, and at least 45 of those people tested positive for campylobacteriosis, a bacterial infection.

Most of the sickened people reported getting raw milk from two different milking operations, one in northern Idaho and one in southern Idaho. 

“Both milking operations are working in collaboration with DHW and local public health agencies to identify and fix any potential sources of contamination,” DHW said. 

Campylobacteriosis can appear  two to five days after exposure. Symptoms include diarrhea (sometimes bloody), fever, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Infections can be more severe in young children, the elderly, and those who are immunocompromised, but most people recover within one week of symptom onset.