The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is warning residents about the risks of consuming raw, unpasteurized milk after at least eleven people in Illinois became ill in recent weeks. The illnesses have been linked to milk that was not heat-treated to kill bacteria and other pathogens.
According to IDPH, the outbreak involves Campylobacter, a bacteria that can cause fever, stomach cramps, and diarrhea — sometimes bloody — and in severe cases, can lead to complications such as irritable bowel syndrome, arthritis, or Guillain-Barré syndrome. Health officials say all the known cases appear connected to raw milk from a single producer that is cooperating with the investigation and notifying customers.
“Pasteurization is one of the greatest public health successes of the last century,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “Raw milk skips this important step and can carry dangerous germs that may cause serious illness, especially in young children, older people, and individuals with chronic medical conditions.”
While most milk products sold in Illinois are pasteurized, state law does allow some raw milk sales under specific conditions. These rules require producers to test for temperature and antibiotics but do not mandate testing for pathogens such as Campylobacter, E. coli, or Salmonella.
Public health officials emphasized that anyone — regardless of age or health status — can become sick from foodborne pathogens, but vulnerable populations are at the highest risk. Anyone who has recently consumed raw milk and develops gastrointestinal symptoms is urged to contact their healthcare provider promptly.
IDPH also reminded consumers of several basic food safety steps:
- Choose pasteurized milk and dairy products.
- Keep perishable foods refrigerated at 40°F or below.
- Discard any expired or spoiled foods; when in doubt, throw it out.
- Avoid leaving food out for more than two hours (or one hour in hot conditions above 90°F).
For more information on the risks associated with raw milk, visit the Illinois Department of Public Health’s resource page on Raw Milk and Your Health.
