At least 5 raw milk-related E. coli cases have been counted in Missouri since the end of March. Two children have been hospitalized with hemolytic uremic syndrome, a complication of E. coli infection.
Missouri public health officials announced Friday that E. coli-contaminated raw milk is the source of an E. coli outbreak that has resulted in 5 E. coli cases, 2 with HUS. Anyone who has purchased raw milk should dispose of it immediately due to its potential to be contaminated with E. coli bacteria.
E. coli infection is a serious foodborne illness with symptoms including bloody diarrhea. Individuals who become ill with E. coli – especially the very young and very old – can develop hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can cause kidney failure and central nervous system impairment.
Raw milk can be contaminated with E. coli during the milking process. E. coli bacteria live in the intestines of cows and other ruminant animals, and are shed in their feces. Pasteurization kills E. coli and other bacteria.
The Missouri E. coli outbreak is one of several raw milk-related E. coli outbreaks that have occurred over the last several years. E. coli outbreaks in California, Connecticut, and other states have been traced to raw milk produced through both commercial milk producers and cow-share agreements.
The Marler Clark attorneys have represented several children and adults who became ill with E. coli infections or HUS after consuming raw milk in litigation against raw milk dairies and retailers who sold raw milk. Read more about E. coli cases the law firm has been involved in and cases the Marler Clark attorneys have brought on behalf of Missouri E. coli outbreak victims on the Marler Clark Website.