Core Points - Florida's health department reported multiple cases of bacterial infections linked to the consumption of raw milk, resulting in 21 illnesses, including 6 children under 10 years old [2] - The bacteria identified include Campylobacter and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, with 7 individuals hospitalized and at least two experiencing severe complications [2] - The health department did not disclose the name of the implicated farm but indicated that its sanitary conditions are concerning [2] Summary by Category Health Risks - Raw milk, defined as unpasteurized milk from cows, sheep, or goats, is associated with various pathogenic bacteria, including Campylobacter, E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella, which can cause gastrointestinal diseases such as diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps [2] - Shiga toxin-producing E. coli can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome, resulting in kidney failure, particularly dangerous for children [2] - High-risk groups for severe illness include infants, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems [2] Regulatory Context - In Florida, raw milk is only permitted for sale as pet or animal food and is banned for human consumption [2] - The health department urges local residents to understand the potential risks of raw milk and to choose their milk sources carefully [3]

Core Points - Florida's health department reported multiple cases of bacterial infections linked to the consumption of raw milk, resulting in 21 illnesses, including 6 children under 10 years old [1] - The bacteria identified include Campylobacter and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, with 7 individuals hospitalized and at least 2 experiencing severe complications [1] - The health department did not disclose the name of the implicated farm but indicated that its sanitary conditions are concerning [1] Summary by Category Health Risks - Raw milk, defined as unpasteurized milk from cows, sheep, or goats, can harbor harmful bacteria such as Campylobacter, E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella, leading to gastrointestinal diseases [1] - Infections can cause symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps, with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli potentially leading to hemolytic uremic syndrome and kidney failure, particularly dangerous for children [1] - High-risk groups include infants, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems [1] Regulatory Context - In Florida, raw milk is only permitted for sale as pet or animal food and is banned for human consumption [1] - The health department urged the public to understand the potential risks associated with raw milk and to choose milk sources cautiously [1]