WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an urgent notice regarding a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections. So far, the outbreak has affected 28 people across 12 states, leading to 28 hospitalizations and two deaths, one in Illinois and one in New Jersey.
The CDC’s investigation revealed that 89% of the sick individuals reported consuming meats sliced at deli counters. However, the specific type of deli meat causing the outbreak has not yet been identified. The CDC emphasized that there is no evidence to suggest that prepackaged deli meats are also contaminated.
What You Should Do
The CDC advises people at higher risk of Listeria infection to avoid deli-sliced meats unless they are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot right before serving. It’s also crucial to clean refrigerators, containers, and any surfaces that may have come into contact with the sliced deli meats.
If you experience symptoms of Listeria and have recently eaten meats sliced at deli counters, seek medical attention immediately.
Listeria: What You Need to Know
Listeria can cause severe illness when the bacteria spread beyond the gut to other parts of the body. For pregnant individuals, the infection usually results in fever, fatigue, and muscle aches, but it can also lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or severe infection in the newborn. For others, symptoms may include headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, convulsions, fever, and muscle aches. Symptoms can appear anywhere from one day to 70 days after consuming contaminated food.
Businesses are also urged to follow USDA-FSIS best practices to control Listeria contamination in deli areas.
This outbreak is a stark reminder of the importance of food safety and the need for vigilance when it comes to consuming ready-to-eat meats. For more information on cases in specific states, individuals are advised to contact their local health department.
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