21 sick, 7 hospitalized in Florida raw milk outbreak

The Big Picture

The Florida Department of Health (FDOH) has issued a stark public health alert following an outbreak of illnesses linked to raw milk consumption. At least 21 people—including six children under age 10—have become ill in Northeast and Central Florida after consuming unpasteurized milk from a single farm. Of those, seven have been hospitalized, and two developed serious complications tied to Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC).

Health Risks and Warning

Raw milk, unlike its pasteurized counterpart, is not heat-treated to kill harmful bacteria. According to the Florida Department of Health (FDOH)/ , it can harbor several dangerous pathogens such as Campylobacter, E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella. These organisms can cause severe gastrointestinal illnesses and, in some cases, lead to life-threatening complications like hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), especially in children.

What’s Legal in Florida

In Florida, the sale of raw milk is only legal for non-human consumption—often marketed as “pet food.” This legal loophole limits the ability of state regulators to enforce sanitation standards, a gap now under scrutiny as investigations into the source farm continue.

Children Among the Most Affected

The FDOH confirmed that six of the infected individuals are under the age of 10. At least two patients suffered serious health complications, including kidney failure, consistent with HUS—a dangerous outcome of STEC infection. Health experts warn that the young, elderly, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems are at greatest risk.

FDOH Statement and Public Guidance

In its official statement, the FDOH acknowledged that while some raw milk consumers claim benefits like better taste or relief from asthma and allergies, these claims remain scientifically unproven. The department strongly advises Floridians to weigh the risks before consuming raw milk, especially given recent evidence of contamination from a single producer.

The Bottom Line

While raw milk advocates cite tradition and personal choice, the Florida Department of Health underscores the potential dangers associated with unpasteurized dairy. The ongoing outbreak highlights a broader issue: insufficient regulation over products legally sold for non-human consumption but often used otherwise. Officials continue to investigate the implicated farm’s sanitary practices while urging residents to stay informed and cautious.

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