Illinois Public Health Department Warns Against Raw Milk After Campylobacter Outbreak

On November 7, 2025, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) issued a warning about the dangers of consuming raw, unpasteurized milk following an outbreak of Campylobacter infections. At least 11 individuals in Illinois have fallen ill after consuming raw milk from a single producer, who is currently notifying customers and cooperating with health authorities.

Campylobacter bacteria can cause symptoms such as diarrhea (which may be bloody), fever, and stomach cramps, and in severe cases, can lead to complications like irritable bowel syndrome, arthritis, or Guillain-Barré syndrome. IDPH emphasizes that pasteurization is a critical public health measure to eliminate harmful pathogens in milk. The department advises consumers to choose pasteurized milk and dairy products, refrigerate perishable foods at 40°F or below, and discard any expired or spoiled items. Individuals who have consumed raw milk and experience gastrointestinal symptoms are urged to contact their healthcare provider promptly.

Dr. Sameer Vohra, IDPH Director, emphasized the importance of pasteurization:

"Pasteurization is one of the greatest public health successes of the last century. It helps keep milk and dairy products safe for everyone to enjoy. Raw milk skips this important step and can carry dangerous germs that may cause serious illness, especially in young children, older people, and individuals with chronic medical conditions."

In Illinois, raw milk regulations require testing for temperature, antibiotics, and certain indicators of infection. However, specific pathogen testing for bacteria like Campylobacter is not mandated.

This incident is not isolated. Similar outbreaks have occurred in other states:

• Florida (August 2025): Twenty-one people, including six children, were infected with E. coli and Campylobacter after consuming raw milk. Seven individuals were hospitalized, with at least two suffering severe complications.

• California (September 2023 - March 2024): A Salmonella outbreak linked to raw milk products affected 171 people, primarily children, making it one of the largest raw milk-related outbreaks in recent U.S. history.

The recurrence of such outbreaks underscores the ongoing public health challenge posed by the consumption of raw milk. Despite warnings from health authorities, raw milk continues to be consumed by certain populations, often due to beliefs about its purported health benefits. These incidents highlight the need for increased public education on the risks associated with unpasteurized dairy products and the importance of pasteurization in preventing foodborne illnesses.

The recent Campylobacter outbreak in Illinois serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with consuming raw, unpasteurized milk. It highlights the critical role of pasteurization in ensuring dairy safety and the need for continued public education and regulatory vigilance to prevent future incidents.