In 2014, a Listeria outbreak has caused one death and multiple illnesses. Recently, evidence has risen proving that there is a link between the outbreak and a source which is an organic farm in Pennsylvania.
Back in January 2016, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was able to identify a listeria bacteria strain in raw chocolate milk. The raw milk was produced by Miller's Organic Farm located at 648 Mill Creek School Rd. in Bird in Hand, Pennsylvania, as told by UPI.
The investigation was taken from the CDC's genetic testing. The bacteria found had a close relation to the strain that killed one milk consumer in Florida. CDC has warned consumers over the weekend to avoid purchasing raw milk from Miller's farm. Health officials have been advising against the consumption of raw milk because raw milk has not been pasteurized. Unpasteurized milk can carry bacteria such as salmonella, E.coli, listeria and campylobacter. The CDC is concerned that the farm's conditions may still hold listeria contamination. The same organic farm has been tested positive for salmonella prior to May 2015.
"Only club members can order foods from Miller's Organic Farm," the Miller's Organic Farm website states. Though the farm does not distribute its raw dairy products to retail stores, owner Amos Miller is still reported to be selling their food items to their current members. Miller tells CBS that he is not aware of any health issues and is curious as to how the CDC proved the bacteria came from the farm. Pennlive reports that Miller was only notified about the listeria strain on Thursday but has explained that no one from CDC has contacted him or the company for further testing. Still, Miller hopes "...and pray for the best."
If you have purchased raw milk from Miller's Organic Farm and believe to have been infected, it is best to consult a physician immediately.
