The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning regarding a listeria outbreak associated with deli meats which has resulted in at least two fatalities and affected 28 individuals across 12 states.
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28 people have been hospitalized due to listeria infection and two individuals have died. The deceased were from Illinois and New Jersey.
The outbreak has spread to 12 states. New York has reported the highest number of cases (7) followed by Maryland with 6 cases.
Other states with reported cases include Georgia, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Wisconsin.
The cases have been reported from May 29 to July 5, 2024. It is important to note that the actual number of cases may be higher as some people recover without medical care and are not tested for listeria.
The CDC’s investigation has identified that many affected individuals reported consuming meats sliced at deli counters before falling ill.
Meats commonly mentioned include deli-sliced turkey, liverwurst and ham. Currently there is no indication that prepackaged deli meats are involved in this outbreak.
The CDC alongside the US Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) is gathering data to pinpoint the exact source of contamination.
The CDC reported that two people have died due to the outbreak with one death occurring in Illinois and another in New Jersey. A total of 28 individuals have been hospitalized across various states.
Cases have been reported in 12 states, New York (7 cases), Maryland (6 cases), Georgia (2 cases), Massachusetts (2 cases), Missouri (2 cases), New Jersey (2 cases), Virginia (2 cases), Illinois (1 case), Minnesota (1 case), North Carolina (1 case), Pennsylvania (1 case), and Wisconsin (1 case).
The CDC believes the actual number of people affected may be higher than reported due to some individuals experiencing milder symptoms and not seeking medical attention or testing.
16 out of 18 interviewed patients confirmed they consumed meats sliced at deli counters before falling ill.
Commonly consumed meats include turkey, liverwurst and ham with no specific brand or supplier identified. No reports link prepackaged deli meat to the outbreak.
Common symptoms include fever, muscle aches, fatigue, headache, stiff neck, confusion and seizures. In pregnant individuals listeriosis can lead to pregnancy loss or premature birth.
Older adults and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness.
The CDC advises vulnerable groups like pregnant individuals, those over 65 and immunocompromised persons to avoid consuming deli meats unless they are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot.
It is recommended to clean refrigerators and any surfaces that may have come into contact with the deli meat.
Listeria infection can lead to a severe illness known as listeriosis. Symptoms typically begin one to four weeks after exposure but can appear as early as the same day or as late as 70 days later. Common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Stiff neck
- Confusion
- Loss of balance
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Pregnant individuals and their unborn children. People aged 65 or older. Those with weakened immune systems.
Pregnant individuals may experience only flu-like symptoms but listeriosis can lead to severe complications including miscarriages or stillbirths.
The CDC advises individuals at higher risk for listeriosis to avoid consuming deli meats unless they are heated to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit or until steaming hot right before serving.
To minimize the risk of listeria infection, follow these guidelines, Regularly wash hands with soap and water. Ensure refrigerators are set to 40 degrees Fahrenheit or lower.
Keep raw meats separate from produce. Thaw raw meat in the refrigerator, not on the counter. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
Designate separate cutting boards for meat and produce. Use a food thermometer to make sure meat is cooked thoroughly. Store leftovers in the refrigerator within two hours of serving.
A similar outbreak in February linked to California-based Rizo-Lopez Foods led to multiple grocery chains recalling nearly 60 dairy products due to listeria contamination.
This outbreak affected 26 people across 11 states and resulted in two deaths in California and Texas.
In May 2024, the FDA also issued warnings about another listeria outbreak related to Sargento brand cheeses affecting 15 states.
The CDC and the US Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service are actively investigating the outbreak.
DNA fingerprinting through whole genome sequencing indicates that bacteria from infected individuals are genetically similar.
Listeria can easily spread in deli environments transferring from equipment to surfaces and then to food. Listeria can survive refrigeration but is killed by heat.
Listeria is a serious concern due to its high mortality rate relative to other foodborne illnesses in the United States.
Previous outbreaks have been linked to various foods including leafy greens, ice cream and fruit.
The CDC encourages those who have consumed deli-sliced meats and experience symptoms to seek medical attention.
Public health officials may contact individuals to trace back what they have eaten to help identify the outbreak’s source.
Listeriosis can cause severe complications during pregnancy including miscarriage, stillbirth and premature delivery.
Pregnant women are advised to avoid high-risk foods and ensure any deli meats are thoroughly heated before consumption.
These groups are susceptible to severe outcomes from listeriosis. It is essential for them to follow stringent food safety practices to minimize risk.
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