Two people have died and at least 28 individuals have been hospitalized due to a listeria outbreak linked to deli meats across the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The true number of sick individuals is likely higher than reported as some may not have sought medical care or their illnesses may not yet be connected with the ongoing investigation.
The outbreak has been reported in 12 states: New York, Maryland, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, Missouri, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Minnesota and Wisconsin. The first case was reported on May 29 and the most recent on July 5.
Many of those who fell ill reported consuming meats sliced at deli counters. Of the interviewed individuals who became sick after eating deli meat at various grocery store delis across multiple states, 16 reported consuming turkey or liverwurst. The CDC is investigating to determine which specific products may have been contaminated.
Listeria bacteria spreads easily among deli equipment, surfaces, hands and food. Refrigeration does not kill the bacteria but heat can. People who are pregnant, over 65 or have weakened immune systems are advised to avoid eating deli meat unless it has been reheated until it steams or reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit first.
Listeria is especially harmful for pregnant people as it can cause pregnancy loss, premature birth, or a life-threatening infection in a newborn. Symptoms of listeriosis include fever, muscle aches and fatigue. Infection may also cause headache, stiff neck, confusion or seizures.
The CDC is encouraging anyone who develops symptoms of listeriosis to seek medical care right away and work with local public health officials who may ask for receipts or leftover food to help pinpoint the root of the outbreak.
