A newborn in New Mexico has died from a Listeria infection likely linked to raw milk consumed by the mother during pregnancy. State health officials warned that raw milk poses serious risks, especially to pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals.

Listeria monocytogenes, the bacterium responsible, can cross the placental barrier and cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or fatal infections in newborns. The FDA and ACOG have long cautioned against consuming unpasteurized dairy due to such dangers.

Despite known health risks, raw milk has gained traction among wellness advocates. Critics, including public health experts, stress that pasteurization effectively eliminates dangerous pathogens without compromising nutritional value.

Health authorities are urging pregnant women to avoid raw dairy entirely. Investigations into the exact source of the contamination are ongoing, but the case reinforces warnings against unpasteurized products.