Tallahassee, August 4, 2025 — Health authorities in Florida have confirmed a surge of infections—21 cases in total—linked to the consumption of raw, unpasteurized milk. Six of those affected are children under the age of 10, according to a bulletin released Monday.

🚨 Hospitalizations and Source Concerns

Seven individuals required hospitalization, with two reported in serious condition. Officials believe the contaminated milk originated from a single farm, described as having unsanitary production practices. The infections are spread across Central and Northeast Florida.

📜 Legal Loophole Adds Risk

Raw milk sales in Florida are permitted only when labeled for non-human use—commonly marketed as pet feed. This loophole limits regulatory oversight and heightens the risk of public exposure.

Sanitation issues at the suspected farm are alarming,” the health department noted. Raw milk can pose serious health threats, especially to children and immune-compromised individuals.

🦠 Confirmed Pathogens

Lab testing revealed the presence of Campylobacter and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), both known to cause severe gastrointestinal illness. In extreme cases, E. coli can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS)—a potentially life-threatening kidney condition that disproportionately affects children under five.

📢 Health Advisory

Officials are encouraging residents to avoid raw milk entirely and choose pasteurized alternatives, which are treated to eliminate harmful bacteria. The CDC continues to warn against raw dairy products, citing risks from contaminants like Listeria, Salmonella, and E. coli.