BioPrepWatch

Raw milk has been gaining popularity in the United States recently, but health experts are warning consumers about the risks associated with consuming unpasteurized milk. In fact, selling raw milk is illegal in most states, including Michigan.

The pasteurization process, which involves heating milk to kill harmful bacteria, is seen as crucial for food safety. Raw milk, on the other hand, can carry germs such as campylobacter, E. coli, listeria, and salmonella. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) even labels raw milk as one of the riskiest foods to consume.

The concerns about raw milk consumption have been heightened due to the recent bird flu outbreak in the US. Contaminated raw milk can lead to illnesses, as seen in an E. coli outbreak linked to unpasteurized milk cheese earlier this year.

Health experts strongly advise consumers to opt for pasteurized dairy products instead. It is also important to refrigerate dairy products properly to prevent bacterial growth.

As the popularity of raw milk continues to rise, it is essential for consumers to be aware of the potential risks associated with consuming unpasteurized milk. By following the advice of health experts and choosing pasteurized products, consumers can help reduce their risk of foodborne illnesses.

A rabid raccoon was found in College Park, Maryland, sparking concerns and an alert from the Prince George’s County Health Department. The sick raccoon, captured alive on April 11 in the 5200 block of Iroquois Street, tested positive for rabies on Monday.

Officials are urging anyone who may have had contact with the raccoon to report it to the health department immediately. Rabies is transmitted through saliva, usually through bites or scratches, and post-exposure treatment should be started as soon as possible.

In light of this incident, residents are advised to avoid contact with unfamiliar animals and ensure that their pets are vaccinated for rabies. Officials also recommend monitoring pets while outdoors and not leaving pet food outside, as these can attract potentially rabid animals.

Each year, around 900 Marylanders receive preventative treatment for rabies. To stay updated on this developing story and other breaking news, residents can sign up for breaking news and daily headlines on the WTOP website.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being vigilant when it comes to potential rabies exposure. By taking necessary precautions and reporting any suspicious animal behavior, residents can help prevent the spread of this deadly virus.

The Opioid Epidemic: Advocates Share Personal Losses and Call for Action

Founder of Fentanyl Fathers nonprofit, Greg Swan, recently opened up about the heartbreaking loss of his son to a fentanyl-laced overdose during a town hall event in Oakland County. The emotional event also featured Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard, who highlighted the alarming increase in overdose deaths linked to fentanyl and urged the public to be vigilant, particularly when it comes to counterfeit pills.

Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, is becoming a major factor in drug overdose deaths in Michigan, with a staggering 72% of Oakland County deaths in 2024 being attributed to the drug. In response to this crisis, law enforcement officials are shifting their focus from enforcement and prosecution to education and saving lives.

Speakers at the event, including family law attorney Rebecca Kiessling and Lisa Daniels Goldman from the Jamie Daniels Foundation, emphasized the importance of education and prevention resources for individuals struggling with substance use disorder, their families, law enforcement, and schools. Kiessling, who tragically lost two sons to fentanyl overdoses, stressed the significance of real people sharing their stories to educate and inspire students.

The Oakland County Community Health Network is taking action by connecting individuals with treatment services and embedding school health navigators in specific communities to address questions and concerns from families dealing with substance use disorder. With the opioid epidemic continuing to ravage communities, advocates are calling for increased awareness, education, and support to combat this deadly crisis.