New Mexico health officials warn about raw milk cheese tied to E. coli

(KVIA) -- The New Mexico Department of Health on Thursday said some raw milk cheese has been recalled because they're linked to E. coli infections.

NMDOH advised the public not to eat recalled Sierra Nevada Graziers Raw Milk Cheese products. A nationwide recall started after the products were linked to at least 13 Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) infections in nine states.

The health department said New Mexico doesn't have confirmed cases linked to the recall. The products should be thrown away or returned to a store for a refund.

The FDA said these products are under the recall: Monterey Jack, Jalapeno Jack, Medium Cheddar, and Sharp Cheddar raw milk cheeses.

NMDOH shared a list of STEC symptoms, which can last a few days to a few weeks:

• Fever
• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Dehydration
• Diarrhea (often with blood)

Rarely, STEC can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). HUS is a rare but serious condition that primarily affects children under 5 years old, the elderly and immunocompromised people.

The NMDOH has a helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773). You can also text 66364.