Listeria Outbreak Linked to Deli Meats Claims Two Lives

A troubling listeria outbreak has hit the U.S., primarily linked to sliced deli meats. This outbreak has tragically taken the lives of two individuals, with nearly 30 others falling ill across 12 states, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

At this time, specific brands of deli meat related to the outbreak have not been identified, but an investigation is underway to find out which products may be contaminated. The CDC suggests that foods sold at deli counters are especially prone to contamination due to how easily listeria can spread.

The states impacted by this outbreak include Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, North Carolina, Virginia, and Wisconsin. It’s crucial to remember that listeria can affect anyone but poses a significant risk to pregnant women, elderly individuals (aged 65 and older), and those with weakened immune systems.

As a serious infection, listeriosis can occur after consuming food contaminated with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. The CDC estimates that around 1,600 people in the U.S. contract listeriosis each year, leading to about 260 deaths annually.

To mitigate the risk of illness, the CDC advises that those at higher risk should avoid eating deli meats unless they are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until they are steaming hot. It’s important to note that refrigeration does not kill listeria bacteria.

While this particular outbreak has been traced back to deli meats, other foods can also be risky. This includes cheeses made from contaminated milk and raw vegetables that might have come into contact with listeria in the soil or fertilizer.

Symptoms of listeria infection can vary. For intestinal illnesses, which typically start within a day after consuming contaminated food, people may experience diarrhea and vomiting. However, invasive listeriosis can occur when the bacteria invade beyond the intestines and can manifest with symptoms like fever, muscle aches, and confusion.

For pregnant individuals, symptoms might be milder, such as flu-like symptoms and fever, but the risks to the baby can be severe, possibly leading to miscarriage or life-threatening infections in newborns.