CDC Links E. Coli Outbreak to Raw Milk Cheese in Four States

A significant E. coli outbreak tied to raw milk cheese has affected a minimum of 10 people across four states, according to recent data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Raw Farms LLC has voluntarily recalled its Raw Farm cheddar cheeses following reports of infections in California, Colorado, Texas, and Utah. Despite no positive E. coli (Escherichia coli) tests, the recall was a precautionary measure in response to CDC and Food and Drug Administration concerns, Fox News reported.

E. coli from Raw Farm cheeses caused at least 10 cases, four of which required hospitalization and one of which developed renal hemolytic uremic syndrome. Some patients may have healed without testing or reporting their diseases; thus, the CDC estimates a greater number.

Public Advised to Watch Out for E.Coli Symptoms

Amid the reported E. coli outbreak, consumers are strongly advised against consuming Raw Farm Raw Cheddar cheeses and should return or discard the items, along with wiping down surfaces that may have contact with the potentially contaminated cheeses. The affected products include both the original and jalapeno raw milk and raw cheddar varieties, distributed nationwide.

E. coli infection causes diarrhea, high fever, bloody diarrhea lasting over three days, dehydration, vomiting, and a loss of pink cheeks and lower eyelids three to four days after consumption. While most recover without treatment, severe symptoms should prompt prompt contact with a healthcare professional. It is also important to note that E. coli bacteria spread readily when infected individuals do not wash their hands.

In other news, University of Illinois at Chicago and Harvard University scientists discovered cresomycin, a strong synthetic antibiotic that kills drug-resistant bacteria.

In lab studies, cresomycin worked against multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli; however, health experts noted that the drug requires further human studies to prove its effectiveness and safety.

Bacterial antimicrobial resistance remains a public health concern. The condition has killed 1.27 million people and contributed to 4.95 million deaths worldwide.

Michael Higgins (L), assistant, and Kat Feete (R), general manger, move quickly while processing a soft cheese at the Meadow Creek Dairy Farm on October 5, 2022, in Galax, Virginia.

Individuals Living Alone Face Higher Risk of Depression: CDC

Meanwhile, a separate CDC study found that living alone increases the risk of depression. Single-person households increased to 37.9 million in the U.S. from 2012 to 2022.

Social isolation and loneliness increase the risk of many health issues like diabetes, depression, dementia, heart disease, and death. The study emphasized the importance of social and emotional support for mental health and well-being.

The National Institute of Mental Health stated that severe depression is common in the US and may impact everyday life. According to the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 8.3% of Americans-21.0 million experience severe depression. Adult women had 10.3%, compared to 6.2% for men.

CDC data indicate over 49,000 Americans committed suicide in 2022, up 3% from 2021. Research lead and the US health agency's statistician Sally Curtin called this figure the biggest ever recorded in the country.