11 sick in French cheese Escherichia Coli outbreak

The count of children affected by a severe E. Coli outbreak in France, linked to consuming raw milk cheese, has increased to 11. These cases of Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) were reported at the end of 2023. Surveillance by Santé Publique France for HUS is limited to children under 15 years old, suggesting there may be additional cases. This severe condition, tied to E. Coli infection, can lead to kidney failure, prompting the withdrawal and recall of raw milk cheeses. Health officials advise against the consumption of raw milk and raw milk cheeses by young children, especially those under 5, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.