The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a warning about a deadly listeria outbreak linked to deli meat, affecting multiple states.
Two people have died, and at least 28 have been hospitalized. The CDC believes the actual number of cases is higher due to unreported mild illnesses. There is also a delay in connecting new cases to the ongoing investigation.
The outbreak has affected people in New York (7 cases), Maryland (6 cases), Georgia, Massachusetts, Missouri, New Jersey, Virginia (2 cases each), and Illinois, Minnesota, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin (1 case each). The deaths occurred in Illinois and New Jersey.
Out of 18 people interviewed, 16 ate deli-sliced meats before getting sick. There are no reports of illness from packaged deli meat. The CDC and the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service are investigating, but no specific meat or recalls have been identified. Most sick individuals ate turkey, liverwurst, or ham from various grocery stores. DNA tests suggest the bacteria likely came from the same food source.
The outbreak began in late May, with the most recent case reported on July 5.
Listeria can cause listeriosis, the third leading cause of foodborne illness death in the US. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, fatigue, headache, stiff neck, confusion, or seizures. Pregnant individuals may experience pregnancy loss or premature birth.
Listeria spreads easily in delis, from equipment to surfaces, hands, and food. Refrigeration doesn’t kill the bacteria, but heat does.
High-risk groups (pregnant individuals, those 65 and older, and those with weakened immune systems) should avoid deli meat unless heated to 165°F. Clean your refrigerator and any surfaces that touched deli meat.
Anyone with listeriosis symptoms should seek medical care immediately. The CDC urges sick individuals to cooperate with local public health officials to help trace the outbreak source.