Listeria monocytogenes bacteria was found in raw milk that was produced by Shunpike Dairy at 1342 Shunpike, in Millbrook, New York. That is in Dutchess county. The New York Department of Agriculture and Markets released this information in a press release.
Raw milk is milk that has not been pasteurized. The pasteurization process briefly heats the milk to kill pathogens such as Listeria. No illnesses have been reported to date in association with this issue.
A sample of the milk that was collected by a Department inspector tested preliminary positive and the dairy was notified on January 25, 2019. Further testing conducted on January 30, 2019, confirmed the presence of the bacteria in the milk. The dairy is now prohibited from selling raw milk until sampling indicates the product is free from bacteria.
The symptoms of listeriosis, the illness caused by this bacteria, can take up to 70 days to appear, although most people get sick within 1 to 4 weeks. The main symptoms include high fever, neck stiffness, severe headaches, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Pregnant women may only have a mild illness that seems like the flu, but listeriosis can cause stillbirth, miscarriage, premature labor, and infection in the newborn.
The news release did not state any particular sizes of milk, or any particular product. It just states “raw milk.” If you bought any raw milk from Shunpike Dairy in New York, do not drink it. Throw it away in a sealed or double wrapped container, or take it back to the place of purchase for a refund.
Then you should clean your refrigerator with a mild bleach solution to kill any remaining bacteria. Listeria monocytogenes can become persistent in an environment, especially one that is moist. The pathogen can grow at refrigerator temperatures, and freezing doesn’t kill it. Wash your hands well with soap and water after handling this product.
