The E. coli outbreak in California associated with Organic Pastures raw milk has expanded. As of February 11, 8 people have been sickened, and two have been diagnosed with HUS. All of the illnesses started in January. Organic Pastures issued a recall for the contaminated milk in early February. Recalled products expired on January 23rd and January 26th. After the outbreak was announced, the California Department of Public Health compiled a list of all California stores that have been affected by the recall. The full, 159 store list can be found here.
E. coli poisoning is a very common form of foodborne illness. However, not all strains of E. coli cause illness in humans. The strain of E. coli associated with this outbreak is Shiga-toxin producing E. coli O157. Once infection takes place, an E. coli infection will produce symptoms such as bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramping. Symptoms may take up to 72 hours to appear. If you or a loved one begins to show the symptoms of E. coli poisoning, contact a medical professional.
