Homemade Mexican-style soft cheeses have been linked to causing at least 50 cases of salmonella since November.
"These cheeses are often made with raw unpasteurized milk and under unsanitary conditions," said Dr. GIl Chavez, State Epidemiologist for the California Department of Public Health.
"Consequently, we are seeing a dramatic increase in the number of reported salmonella, particularly in the Hispanic community."
Michelle Corson, Public Relations Officer for the Kern County Public Health Services Department, says that the salmonella can be deadly.
"For women it can cause miscarriage, so these are serious and we need the community to know not to buy these cheeses, not to eat these cheeses."
These cheeses are often sold from people's houses or street vendors.
Dr. Chavez recommends only "purchasing cheeses made by licensed manufacturers and kept in refrigerated cases at retail stores only."
Corson says the main focus is making sure that people stop purchasing the cheese.
"Don't support people that do it by purchasing these products and keep your health and your family's health in mind before you do so because they are not regulated and it is an open opportunity to expose yourself to bacteria and pathogens that can make you very sick."
If you know of someone who might be selling homemade cheese illegally, Corson says to contact the Department of Public Health.
If you suspect that you have eaten this cheese and are experiencing symptoms of salmonella, Corson says to visit your primary care physician.
