By Franklin Delgado
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (DHW) launched an investigation into the increase in illnesses associated with the consumption of raw milk. Since May 19, almost 60 people have been diagnosed.
The DHW reports that at least forty-five of the sick people tested positive for campylobacteriosis. The infections are linked to two dairy farms in Idaho, and steps are being taken to identify sources of contamination.
Specifically, the Idaho Division of Public Health is collaborating on the research with the Panhandle, Southwest, Central, Southeastern Idaho Public Correctly Being, South Central Public Correctly Being, and Eastern Idaho Public Correctly Being health districts.
Risks of campylobacteriosis
Pasteurization eliminates almost all the germs present in raw milk, maintaining its nutritional properties. While raw and unpasteurized dairy products can contain bacteria that cause illness, especially in young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and immunocompromised people.
People affected by campylobacteriosis generally recover within a week, although it is warned that those in vulnerable populations could experience more serious consequences.
Common symptoms of campylobacteriosis infection include diarrhea (sometimes bloody), fever, stomach cramps, nausea and/or vomiting. These symptoms usually begin two to five days after exposure.
Anyone who develops symptoms after consuming raw milk or raw dairy products is advised to seek medical attention immediately.
Long term consequences
Campylobacteriosis infections can cause long-term complications in vulnerable populations, including Guillain-Barré syndrome (neuromuscular paralysis), reactive arthritis (chronic joint pain and inflammation), functional intestinal disorders such as moody bowel syndrome (abdominal pain and persistent diarrhea), and, to a lesser extent, exacerbation of malnutrition and growth retardation in children; Each of these consequences has a higher risk or worse prognosis in the elderly, immunosuppressed, infants, and people with chronic comorbidities.
Causes and mechanisms:
- The autoimmune reaction after campylobacteriosis infection is the main cause of Guillain-Barré syndrome; Antibodies that cross-react with nerve gangliosides damage peripheral nerves.
- Reactive arthritis and intestinal functional disorders appear to be due to prolonged immune responses or alteration of the intestinal microbiota after acute infection.
Who is most vulnerable:
- Greater risk: elderly, neonates/infants, immunosuppressed (HIV, chemotherapy, transplants), malnourished and people with chronic diseases (diabetes, kidney disease). These conditions increase the likelihood of severe complications and incomplete recovery.
- In children in environments with food insecurity or poor health care, infection can result in stunted growth and increased indirect mortality.
Prevention and mitigation in vulnerable populations:
- Key measures: improve food safety and drinking water, education on food handling, aid in the prevention of infections in hospitals and early diagnosis/treatment in risk groups.
- In severe cases or at risk of Guillain-Barré, early neurological surveillance and referral to specialized care reduce long-term damage.
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