Real Raw Milk Facts

Alaska: Outbreak Of Campylobacter Illnesses Traced To Raw Milk

Press Release

State of Alaska

Department of Health and Social Services

June 27, 2011

At least four known cases

ANCHORAGE — The state of Alaska Section of Epidemiology is investigating four recent cases of Although Alaska state regulations do not permit the sale of raw milk, owning shares of an animal to receive that animal’s milk is permissible. Unlike milk supplied by commercial outlets, there is no testing or pasteurization required of milk before distribution from a cow-share program.

“Raw milk is an ideal substance for the proliferation of bacteria introduced through fecal contamination,” said Dr. Joe McLaughlin, chief of the section. “Unpasteurized milk can be infected with a number of pathogens including Listeria, Salmonella, and as we’ve seen in this case, Campylobacter.”

Anyone who has consumed raw milk and subsequently experienced acute gastrointestinal illness (i.e. diarrhea, vomiting, cramps, fever) since March 2011, is asked to contact the Section of Epidemiology at 907-269-8000.


An epidemiology bulletin containing a full report from the investigation is available here.

Real Life Dangers of Raw Milk

Several families offered to share their stories on video to help raise awareness about the potential risks and negative effects on health from drinking contaminated raw milk.

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