2025 Outbreak of Shiga Toxin E. coli (STEC) Infections Linked to Raw Milk Consumption, Washington
Between May 2 and May 5, 2025, three Washington residents from Cowlitz County (1), Clark County (1) and Pierce County (1) became ill with infections due to Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (also called STEC). All reported drinking raw (unpasteurized) milk produced by Cowlitz Hill Guernseys L.L.C. (Salkum, WA). One person was hospitalized. No one died.
A routine Cowlitz Hill Guernseys milk sample collected by WSDA on May 5, 2025 tested negative for STEC. Because of the negative test result, no recall has been recommended. WSDA routinely samples all retail raw milk operations monthly.
Tags:
dairyOverview
| Outbreak began: | May 2025 |
|---|---|
| Affected country: | US |
| States/territories: | WA |
| Pathogen: | Shiga toxin E. coli |
| Vehicle(s): | Milk |
| Location(s): | Retail |
| Brand name(s): | Cowlitz Hill Guernseys L.L.C. |
| Molecular test results: | Not reported |
Health impact
| Total ill: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Number hospitalized: | 1 |
Sources & documents
| Report / reference links | ||
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| Outbreak documents | ||