2 San Diego County Children Sickened In E. Coli Outbreak Linked To Raw Milk Cheese

SAN DIEGO, CA — Two San Diego County children younger than 5 are among 13 people sickened in a multi-state E. coli outbreak linked to recalled raw milk cheese, county health officials said.

Sierra Nevada Graziers recalled several varieties of its grass-fed raw milk cheese last week after the products were linked to the outbreak. The recalled cheeses include medium cheddar, sharp cheddar, jalapeño jack and Monterey jack.

The outbreak has been linked to 13 cases across 10 states, including three in California and three in Nevada. One case each has been reported in Oregon, Utah, Colorado, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia and Michigan.

Two of California's three cases occurred in San Diego County children under 5 years old. The average age of those sickened is 5, according to county officials.

The recalled cheese was sold in 8- and 16-ounce packages at retail stores and in 5-pound loaves to food service customers and wholesalers.

County health officials urged people not to eat the recalled products and to throw away any they have at home. The county has also notified local retailers about the recall.

"Raw milk products like unpasteurized cheese can carry dangerous bacteria, including Shiga toxin-producing E. coli," County Public Health Officer Dr. Sayone Thihalolipavan said. "These infections can cause severe illness, especially in young children, pregnant women, older adults and people with weakened immune systems."

E. coli infections can cause stomach cramps, diarrhea and vomiting. Severe cases can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious condition that can cause kidney failure.

Health officials advised consumers to clean and sanitize surfaces and utensils that may have come into contact with the recalled cheese using hot, soapy water.

Anyone experiencing symptoms of an E. coli infection, particularly bloody diarrhea, severe abdominal cramps or signs of dehydration, should seek medical attention, officials said.