Health District warns against drinking raw milk

The sale of raw milk is prohibited in Clark County

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 4, 2024

LAS VEGAS – The Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) is alerting people to the health risks associated with consuming raw milk, following an increase in the illegal sale of these products in Clark County. The sale of raw milk, and its products, is illegal in Clark County due to serious health concerns. SNHD advises residents to only consume pasteurized milk, which is treated to eliminate germs that can cause severe illness.

Raw milk can be contaminated with bacteria like salmonella, E. coli, listeria, brucella and campylobacter, all of which can lead to severe health complications or even death. Some groups are especially vulnerable to these illnesses, including children under 5, older adults over 65, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems.

When SNHD discovers raw milk being sold, the milk is confiscated and discarded. Repeated violations can result in enforcement actions, including the potential revocation of health permits.

Anyone who observes raw milk being sold for human consumption in Clark County is encouraged to report it by calling the Nevada Department of Agriculture at (775) 353-3607. Anyone who becomes ill after consuming raw milk should call (702) 759-1300 or submit a report using the Foodborne Illness Complaint Form. SNHD strongly advises the public not to consume raw milk from any animal.

For more information about raw milk and the health risks associated with it, visit the FDA’s website: Raw Milk Misconceptions and Danger of Raw Milk Consumption. For more information about dairy sales in Nevada, visit the Nevada Department of Agriculture website at Dairy Distribution and Marketing (nv.gov).

The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.