The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are actively investigating a concerning E. coli outbreak spanning across several states, with raw cheddar cheese identified as the potential source, as reported by USA Today.
The outbreak is believed to be linked to Raw Cheddar cheese produced by Raw Farm, a brand under Raw Farm LLC based in Fresno, California. The FDA disclosed that Raw Farm Raw Cheddar blocks and finely ground cheese products, including original flavor and Cheddar and Jalapeño variants, were distributed nationwide.
As a consequence of this outbreak, a total of 10 patients have been hospitalized, with four cases in California, three in Colorado, two in Utah, and one in Texas. Notably, one patient has developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a type of kidney failure. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported according to the FDA.
Cases related to the outbreak have been reported between October 18, 2023, and January 29, 2024, according to the CDC. During investigations, six out of eight interviewed patients revealed consumption of Raw Farm’s raw cheddar cheese, as confirmed by local and state officials and reported by the FDA.
In response to the ongoing investigation, Raw Farm has issued a recall for specific cheese lots currently within their shelf life.
Understanding E. coli: Most strains of Escherichia coli (E. coli) are harmless and naturally inhabit the intestines of animals and humans. However, infection can occur when consuming water or food contaminated with specific types of E. coli, leading to gastrointestinal diseases that can pose a threat to life.
E. coli Infection: Symptoms of E. coli infections typically manifest three to four days after exposure and may include severe stomach pain, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting lasting for approximately five to seven days.
Notably, the true extent of the outbreak may be underestimated, as some individuals recover from E. coli infection without seeking medical care or undergoing testing. Recent cases might not be recorded immediately due to the time it takes to determine if an individual is part of the outbreak, as stated by health officials.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- What is the E. coli outbreak? The CDC and FDA are investigating an E. coli outbreak across several states linked to raw cheddar cheese, specifically Raw Cheddar cheese by Raw Farm, a brand created by Raw Farm LLC of Fresno, California.
- What has happened as a result of the outbreak? Ten patients have been hospitalized, with one developing hemolytic uremic syndrome, a type of kidney failure. Cases are reported in California, Colorado, Utah, and Texas, with no reported deaths according to the FDA.
