At least two people have died and over two dozen were hospitalized in a listeria outbreak linked to deli-sliced meat across the United States, according to reports from multiple sources.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that 28 cases of listeria infection had been reported since May 29, with the largest number of cases in New York (7) and Maryland (6). The two people who died were from Illinois and New Jersey.
Many of those affected reported eating deli-sliced turkey, liverwurst, and ham. No recalls have been issued for prepackaged deli meat at this time.
Listeria infections can cause fever, muscle aches, tiredness, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and convulsions. They are especially dangerous for pregnant people who may experience miscarriages or premature births.
The CDC advises that refrigeration does not kill Listeria bacteria but reheating to a high enough temperature before eating will kill any germs that may be present in deli meats.
This is not the first listeria outbreak linked to deli meat this summer. In June, a Maryland-based food manufacturer was forced to recall multiple brands of ice cream products sold nationwide due to potential contamination with Listeria.
The true number of those infected in this outbreak may be higher than reported and the investigation is ongoing.
