Human Campylobacter infection associated with certified raw milk

Area of Science:

• Foodborne illness epidemiology
• Microbiology of milk
• Public health

Background:

• Gastrointestinal illness outbreaks can be linked to contaminated food products.
• Campylobacter jejuni is a known cause of foodborne illness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate a gastrointestinal illness outbreak in Atlanta.
• To identify the source of Campylobacter jejuni infection.
• To assess the safety of raw milk production.

Main Methods:

• Epidemiologic investigation of affected households.
• Bacteriologic culture survey of cows and milk.
• Evaluation of dairy facility and operating procedures.

Main Results:

• 50 individuals in 30 households reported illness due to Campylobacter jejuni.
• Consumption of unpasteurized milk was strongly associated with illness.
• Cows tested positive for Campylobacter jejuni, but the organism was not detected in the milk. Dairy operations met Grade A raw milk standards.

Conclusions:

• The study highlights the risk of Campylobacter jejuni transmission through raw milk, even from dairies adhering to regulatory standards.
• Proper pasteurization is crucial for ensuring the safety of milk and protecting public health from milkborne pathogens.