State Public Health Director issues consumer warning about contaminated raw milk

Raw Milk sold by DeKalb County Dairy Farm tests positive for Salmonella

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - Dr. Eric E. Whitaker, state public health director, is warning consumers who have purchased raw milk from the Brian and Barbara Hill dairy farm located at 17416 Hinckley Road, Maple Park, Illinois, any time after March 27, 2007, to discard it immediately due to the risk of Salmonella contamination.

Following a routine inspection, a sample collected has tested positive for Salmonella bacteria in the raw milk supply taken from the Brian and Barbara Hill dairy farm. Raw milk is milk that has not been pasteurized.

“There have been no illnesses reported associated with the milk directly from the farm,” said Dr. Whitaker. “But consumers should be aware that drinking raw milk can be hazardous to their health and puts them at risk of exposure to a variety of disease-causing pathogens such as Salmonella, Campylobacter or Listeria. If individuals who consumed the raw milk become ill, they are advised to consult their physician.”

Symptoms of salmonellosis include diarrhea, fever and headache. Symptoms usually appear six to 72 hours after ingestion and can last up to 12 days. Children younger than 1 year-old and people with weakened immune systems are the most susceptible. Persons with symptoms of salmonellosis should consult with their healthcare provider and report any risky exposures such as consumption of raw milk.

The Illinois Department of Public Health has suspended sales of raw milk to consumers at the dairy and is working to ensure that corrective action is taken.