Deadly Listeria Outbreak Linked to Deli Meats Across 12 States
Listeria Outbreak Overview
A listeria outbreak linked to sliced deli meats has resulted in two fatalities across 12 states, according to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). As of Friday, 28 individuals have been infected and hospitalized since the outbreak began in May.
Affected States and Cases
Listeria infections have been reported in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri, Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, and Massachusetts. The CDC confirmed two deaths in Illinois and New Jersey. Notably, one pregnant woman contracted listeria but recovered without complications.
Source of the Outbreak
Most infected individuals reported consuming various meats sliced at deli counters in the month preceding their illness. Of the 18 people interviewed, 16 had eaten deli-sliced meats, primarily turkey, liverwurst, and ham. These meats came from different supermarket and grocery store delis.
Investigation Findings
The CDC compared foods consumed by those infected in this outbreak with foods eaten by others who had listeria but were not part of this outbreak. Findings suggest a higher likelihood of deli-sliced turkey and liverwurst being the outbreak source. However, the CDC lacks sufficient information to pinpoint specific deli meats as the outbreak source.
CDC Recommendations
The CDC advises against eating deli meats sliced at deli counters unless heated before consumption. Particularly vulnerable groups, such as pregnant women, individuals aged 65 or older, and those with weakened immune systems, should contact their doctor if they exhibit any listeria symptoms, including fever, flu-like symptoms, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and seizures.
Unreported Cases and Ongoing Investigation
The CDC believes the actual number of listeria cases is likely higher than reported and could involve additional states. This underreporting is because some individuals recover without medical care and therefore remain untested. Additionally, it takes three to four weeks to determine if a listeria case is part of an outbreak.
Efforts to Identify the Source
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service is working to identify the supplier of the deli meats sliced at grocery store deli counters linked to the outbreak.