A Campylobacter outbreak in Ohio has been connected to raw milk and raw milk products from Sweet Grass Dairy, located at 6049 Bryant Road in Fredericktown. The Ohio Department of Agriculture and the Ohio Department of Health are investigating this outbreak.
Testing has confirmed a connection between those sickened and raw, or unpasteurized, milk that came from Sweet Grass Dairy. Illnesses have been reported in Franklin County, Ohio. There is no word on how many people may have been sickened, whether or not anyone has been hospitalized because of their illness, or the age range of the patients.
The sale of raw milk and raw milk products is illegal in Ohio. The milk products from Sweet Grass Dairy were given to consumers as part of a “herd share.” People buy a share in a farmer’s dairy herd, and then receive milk products from the cows. This is a way to get around the raw milk ban in Ohio and other states.
The symptoms of a Campylobacter infection include diarrhea that is often bloody, abdominal cramps and pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, and tiredness. Most people get sick within 2 to 5 days after exposure to the pathogenic bacteria. And while most people recover completely, some can become seriously ill. About 5% of those who contract this infection die.
Noted food safety attorney Fred Pritzker said:
“Raw milk is an inherently risky product. I have spoken to many food safety experts, including doctors and epidemiologists, over the years. Not once have any of these experts every recommended consumption of raw milk. Contaminated raw milk does not taste, smell, or look different from milk that is safe to drink.”
This is not the first Campylobacter outbreak linked to raw milk this year. In October, 20 people were sickened in Colorado from raw milk produced at Larga Vista Ranch in Pueblo County.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome
Some people who get food poisoning caused by Campylobacter bacteria can develop a serious condition called Guillain-Barré Syndrome. In this condition, the body attacks its own nerve cells, which causes weakness and, in severe cases, paralysis.
This syndrome can cause complete paralysis of the body and can cause death. Even those who recover completely can have residual weakness and abnormal sensations in the body, such as tingling and numbness. About 10% of those who do develop Guillain-Barré Syndrome suffer relapses. And about 25% of patients have some type of permanent neurological disability.
Those most at risk for this syndrome and its serious complications include the very young, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems and chronic illnesses.
Raw Milk Lawsuit
If you consumed raw milk from Sweet Grass Dairy and have experienced the symptoms of campylobacteriosis, see your doctor immediately. Then contact our experienced team of attorneys who can help you protect your legal rights. You may be entitled to compensation for costs of your illness and pain and suffering.