The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has issued a health warning about consuming raw milk due to a discovered presence of the H5 bird flu virus. In a notice posted before midnight, the department advised against the intake of raw milk sold by The Raw Farm, LLC, which has initiated a voluntary recall following the investigation's findings.
With lot code 20241109 and a Best By date of 11/27/2024, the milk was distributed across various stores in Los Angeles. The recall was requested by the state, and in response, the company has taken steps to ensure the potentially affected product is returned by customers. The Public Health's warning stresses that many retailers in Los Angeles may have sold the recalled raw milk, which could be contaminated with the H5 bird flu virus.
Amongst the implicated retail locations are several Erewhon Market branches, Back Door Bakery, Eataly, Lazy Acres, and both Vitamin City outlets among others. The exact list of retailers may grow as further details are unveiled by the ongoing investigation. According to the official bulletin, no related illnesses have been reported to date in LA County regarding this lot of raw milk.
Raw milk can potentially harbor pathogens like listeria, salmonella, and harmful viruses including the one that causes bird flu. Consumers touching their eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands after handling contaminated raw milk may also lead to infection. The department emphasizes that raw milk, even from healthy cows, can be a vehicle for these harmful germs. Therefore, the Department of Public Health, alongside health inspectors, is actively notifying retail entities to expunge the affected product.
As a measure of public safety, raw milk products should be avoided, especially by those at elevated risk such as pregnant individuals, the elderly, young children, and individuals with compromised immune systems. More information about the H5 Bird Flu in humans and animals can be accessed through the provided public health links. Questions and concerns can be directed to the Public Health InfoLine, available every day from 8:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. Local health providers should be contacted without delay by anyone experiencing symptoms after consuming the recalled milk products.
