11 sick cases were reported in French cheese E. coli outbreak

An E. coli outbreak in France tied to raw milk cheese has sickened 11 children, causing hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which leads to kidney failure. Five children from a Toulouse crèche were hospitalized in November after Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) was found in their stool cultures. E. coli O26 was detected in the cheese. Six other children from different regions also developed HUS. Authorities, including Santé Publique France, investigated, leading to a recall of raw milk cheeses like morbier, raclette, and tomme made by Route des Terroirs. These cheeses were distributed nationwide until October 11, 2023. While Morbier cheese from Route des Terroirs was linked to some cases, other sources of contamination haven't been ruled out. Health officials advised against consuming raw milk and cheeses, especially for children under 5, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.