Cheese sold at Costco in 5 states linked to E. coli

(CNN) - Federal health officials are warning consumers to avoid a cheese sold in five states over an E. coli outbreak that has left 25 people sick.

The Gouda cheese was sold at Costco stores in Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico and Nevada.

Costco offered the Bravo Farms Dutch Style Raw Milk Gouda Cheese for sale and in-store tasting between October 5 and November 1.

Twenty-five people have been sickened by E. coli in the five states, the Food and Drug Administration said.

No deaths have been reported.

Those who have purchased it should dispose it in a closed plastic bag and place in a sealed trash can, the FDA said.

Costco is also offering refunds to customers who return the cheese.

E. coli symptoms include bloody diarrhea, stomach cramps, dehydration and in extreme cases, kidney failure.

Officials urged those experiencing such symptoms to contact a health care provider.

The cheese is Costco item 40654.