Deadly Listeria Outbreak Linked to Deli Meats Spreads Across 12 States, CDC Warns

Clear Facts

• There is a Listeria outbreak tied to deli meats that has spread through 12 states in the US, as confirmed by the CDC. The number of people infected is 28, with two reported deaths.
• The exact source of the outbreak is currently unconfirmed, but the majority of those infected reported eating deli meats, mainly turkey, ham, and liverwurst. A formal recall has yet to be issued.
• Typically, symptoms of Listeria emerge two weeks after consuming the contaminated food and can include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. Certain groups, such as pregnant individuals, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, are particularly at risk of severe infection.

A Listeria outbreak connected to deli meats is currently affecting at least 12 states, spoiling many summer gatherings. Health officials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued a warning concerning this outbreak.

The outbreak has seen 28 cases across these states, with two deaths—one in New Jersey and another in Illinois. New York seems to be the most affected, documenting between seven and eight cases. Other states, including Maryland, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Missouri, Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Illinois, have reported between one and two infections each.

“All 28 infected people were hospitalized,” according to the CDC.

Health officials also warn that the actual number of infections might be more than reported, as some people may have been infected and recovered without seeking medical attention or testing for Listeria.

Out of the 18 people in the outbreak who were interviewed for a CDC Investigation Notice, a striking 89 percent admitted to consuming meats sliced at supermarket and grocery store delis. The most commonly consumed meats were turkey, ham, and liverwurst.

“There is not yet enough information to confirm the exact meats that may be the source of the outbreak, and investigators continue to gather data. No formal recall has been issued at this time.”

Symptoms of a Listeria infection typically appear around two weeks after consumption of contaminated food, but can reveal themselves as quickly as the same day or as late as 10 weeks. General symptoms include fever, muscle aches, tiredness, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and seizures, as stated by the CDC.

Listeria infections can be especially dangerous for pregnant individuals, those aged 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems. This is due to the bacteria’s tendency to “spread beyond their gut to other parts of their body,” leading to a severe condition called invasive listeriosis.

“Specific symptoms for pregnant women include fever and flu-like symptoms such as muscle aches and fatigue. The condition can also lead to pregnancy loss, premature birth, or a life-threatening infection in a newborn.”

The CDC advises anyone experiencing Listeria symptoms to seek medical help. They also recommend those at higher risk avoid deli meats sliced at deli counters unless they are reheated to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit or until “steaming hot.” Despite the ability to kill Listeria bacteria by heating food, the bacteria can continue to grow in the refrigerator.

“If you do become sick with Listeria, local or state health officials may also contact you to find out what you ate in the month before getting sick. This can help identify the specific deli products that might be contaminated.”

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Source