A listeria outbreak has led to the recall of millions of pounds of meat, with dozens of people hospitalized and three deaths reported.
Health officials are investigating the spread of the bacteria. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that three people—one each from Illinois, New Jersey, and Virginia—have died due to listeria.
So far, 43 people have been hospitalized, with confirmed cases in 13 states: Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Wisconsin.
The outbreak has triggered the recall of over 7 million pounds of Boar’s Head products made at a Virginia plant. This includes pre-packaged deli meats and those meant for slicing at delis. The latest recall involves 71 products, such as liverwurst, ham, beef salami, and bologna, made between May 10 and July 29 under the Boar’s Head and Old Country brands. An earlier recall affected over 200,000 pounds of sliced deli meat.
Listeria can cause mild symptoms like fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. However, it can be more serious for some, leading to severe symptoms such as headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. Symptoms can appear within hours or up to 70 days after consuming contaminated food.
The elderly and pregnant individuals are at higher risk. Pregnant people may face complications such as miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature delivery.
To reduce the risk, anyone at high risk is advised to heat deli meat to 165 degrees Fahrenheit before eating. Consumers should avoid eating the recalled meats and either discard them or return them to the store for a refund.