Boone County Health Officials said the consumption of raw dairy products is the only common link to five recent cases of E. coli in Mid-Missouri. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is investigating a growing number of cases of the bacteria in Central Missouri from late March to early April. Emergency room doctors recently treated a Boone County two-year-old for E. coli. The toddler is one of five Mid-Missouri victims of the bacteria and one of three in Boone County. Health officials say all five E. coli victims are regular consumers of raw dairy products such as raw milk, cheese and yogurt. Authorities cannot say whether the victims bought these products at the same store. Health officials want you to avoid raw dairy products even if you have a strong immune system. Symptoms of E. coli include stomach aches,diarrhea and vomiting. Sometimes victims experience a slight fever. Health officials said if you experience those symptoms, you should see your doctor immediately. You should also make sure you cook meat thoroughly and always wash your hands before you prepare any food. There were eight confirmed cases of E. coli in Boone County last year. | 
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