Abstract
Although pasteurization eliminates pathogens and consumption of nonpasteurized dairy products is uncommon, dairy-associated disease outbreaks continue to occur. To determine the association of outbreaks caused by nonpasteurized dairy products with state laws regarding sale of these products, we reviewed dairy-associated outbreaks during 1993-2006. We found 121 outbreaks for which the product's pasteurization status was known; among these, 73 (60%) involved nonpasteurized products and resulted in 1,571 cases, 202 hospitalizations, and 2 deaths. A total of 55 (75%) outbreaks occurred in 21 states that permitted sale of nonpasteurized products; incidence of nonpasteurized product-associated outbreaks was higher in these states. Nonpasteurized products caused a disproportionate number (≈150× greater/unit of product consumed) of outbreaks and outbreak-associated illnesses and also disproportionately affected persons <20 years of age. States that restricted sale of nonpasteurized products had fewer outbreaks and illnesses; stronger restrictions and enforcement should be considered.
Highlights
This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Essential Areas and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education through the joint sponsorship of Medscape, LLC and Emerging Infectious Diseases
To compare the incidence of foodborne outbreaks involving nonpasteurized dairy products among states with differing laws with regard to the sale of these products, we reviewed reports of foodborne disease outbreaks involving dairy products reported to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) during 1993–2006
Incidence of outbreaks caused by nonpasteurized dairy products was higher in states that permitted the sale of nonpasteurized dairy products than in states that prohibited such sale
Summary
This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Essential Areas and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education through the joint sponsorship of Medscape, LLC and Emerging Infectious Diseases. LLC is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians. LLC designates this Journal-based CME activity for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)TM. All other clinicians completing this activity will be issued a certificate of participation To participate in this journal CME activity: [1] review the learning objectives and author disclosures; [2] study the education content; [3] take the post-test with a 70% minimum passing score and complete the evaluation at www.medscape.org/journal/eid; [4] view/print certificate.
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