Health Alert Issued in Florida Over Raw Milk Contamination; UBS Raises Chevron Price Target

By / / Breaking News

Key Takeaways

  • The Florida Department of Health has issued a health warning after 21 cases of illness, including seven hospitalizations and two severe complications, were linked to raw milk consumption from a specific farm.
  • The sale of raw milk for human consumption is illegal in Florida, and the department emphasized the significant health risks associated with unpasteurized dairy, particularly for vulnerable populations.
  • UBS has increased its price target for Chevron (CVX) to $186 from $177, maintaining a "Buy" rating, following the company's "clean" quarterly results.

The Florida Department of Health is urging caution regarding raw milk consumption after a recent outbreak of illnesses. Meanwhile, in the financial markets, energy giant Chevron (CVX) has received an upgraded price target from UBS, signaling continued analyst confidence.

Florida Health Officials Warn Against Raw Milk After Outbreak

The Florida Department of Health has reported 21 cases of illness, including six children under the age of 10, and seven hospitalizations, all linked to the consumption of raw milk from a single farm in the Northeast and Central Florida regions. At least two of these cases have resulted in severe complications. The illnesses are attributed to disease-causing bacteria such as Campylobacter and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC).

The department highlighted that the sale of raw milk for human consumption is illegal in Florida, with such products only permitted for sale as pet or animal food, which limits regulatory oversight of sanitary practices. Raw milk, which has not undergone pasteurization—a heat-treating process that eliminates harmful bacteria—can harbor dangerous organisms including Campylobacter spp., E. coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes, Yersinia spp., and Brucella spp. Symptoms of foodborne illness from raw milk can include diarrhea, stomach cramping, and vomiting, with more severe outcomes like kidney failure, paralysis, and even death possible in some instances. Vulnerable populations, including children under 5, adults over 65, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems, face a higher risk of serious illness from these pathogens.

Chevron Sees Price Target Boost from UBS

UBS has raised its price target for Chevron (CVX) shares to $186 from $177, while reiterating a "Buy" rating on the stock. This upward revision comes after Chevron reported what UBS described as "clean" quarterly results. Investors are now looking ahead to Chevron's upcoming analyst day for further insights into the company's strategic direction.

Chevron is a significant integrated energy company with a global presence in exploration, production, and refining. The company's financial health is robust, with a trailing twelve-month revenue of $192.94 billion and a 3-year revenue growth rate of 9.5%. Chevron's profitability metrics include a net margin of 8.12% and an EBITDA margin of 22.08%. The company's valuation metrics show a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 17.3, near its 3-year high, and a conservative debt-to-equity ratio of 0.2. The pending acquisition of Hess Corporation (HES) remains a key focus for Chevron investors, with UBS forecasting the transaction to close in the third quarter of 2025.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. We are not financial professionals. The authors and/or site operators may hold positions in the companies or assets mentioned. Always do your own research before making financial decisions.
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