Minnesota Officials Investigate Salmonella Outbreak

ST. PAUL (AP) — Minnesota officials are investigating after 13 people became sick with salmonella linked to eating unpasteurized cheese.

The state Department of Health says the outbreak is linked to eating a raw Mexican-style cheese.

Officials have confirmed 11 cases of infection with the same strain of salmonella bacteria. Eight people were hospitalized. Additional illnesses were reported in family members, including two hospitalizations. All have recovered.

Officials say the cheese product was made in a private home. Investigators say the person made home deliveries and also may have sold the product on a street corner near East Lake Street in Minneapolis.

Health officials are warning consumers about the risks of consuming unpasteurized dairy products.

Salmonella can cause diarrhea, vomiting and fever. Young children, pregnant women and the elderly can have more severe illness.