4-Year-Old Boy Suffers from Brucellosis After Consuming Unpasteurized Sheep's Milk

Despite the attractive "zero-addition" and "natural freshness" labeling, the milk, which was only mildly heated and not fully boiled, posed a significant health risk, particularly to children, who are more susceptible to serious complications from such infections. Qiang Qiang's ordeal underscores the critical importance of proper food safety measures, including the pasteurization of dairy products, to prevent the transmission of harmful pathogens like Brucella bacteria, which can thrive in unpasteurized dairy products.

According to medical experts, the bacteria that cause Brucellosis have a high survival rate in raw milk and can only be killed by thorough boiling. If left untreated, the infection can lead to lifelong joint damage in children. The bacteria, known as Brucella, can be found in livestock such as cows, sheep, and pigs, and can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals or consumption of undercooked meat and dairy products. The main symptoms of Brucellosis include recurring fever, excessive sweating, joint pain, and fatigue. If left untreated, the infection can lead to chronic and debilitating symptoms.

In Qiang Qiang's case, his parents purchased "zero-additive" fresh sheep's milk during last summer's vacation and gave it to him without fully boiling it, resulting in his illness. Fortunately, after receiving standardized treatment for five days, Qiang Qiang's symptoms showed significant improvement, offering a hopeful outcome in what could have been a devastating situation. This incident serves as a stark reminder to parents and caregivers about the necessity of ensuring that all dairy products consumed by children are safely produced and handled to avoid such preventable illnesses.

The incident has sparked widespread discussion, with many netizens emphasizing the importance of prioritizing children's dietary safety and warning against giving kids unpasteurized fresh milk. There are also calls for relevant authorities to strengthen regulation of unscrupulous businesses and crack down on those that cannot guarantee the authenticity of their products. Many have expressed frustration and concern over the lack of oversight, questioning how businesses can operate without ensuring the quality and safety of their goods. To prevent Brucellosis, it is crucial to adhere to strict hygiene and handling practices, including boiling milk and dairy products before consumption, avoiding raw or unpasteurized milk, and ensuring that all meat is thoroughly cooked to prevent the risk of ingesting the bacteria.

Individuals who experience prolonged fever, joint pain, and have a history of contact with sheep or cattle should seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the development of chronic Brucellosis, which can be challenging to cure. By adopting these preventive measures and being vigilant about symptoms, the risk of contracting Brucellosis can be significantly reduced, protecting both human and animal health. The hashtag #4岁男童喝零添加鲜羊奶后腿疼1年# has been trending, with many users sharing their own concerns and experiences with food safety and calling for greater accountability from both parents and businesses, leading to a broader discussion about the importance of food safety and the need for stricter regulations to protect consumers, particularly vulnerable populations like children.