Listeria monocytogenes has caused an outbreak in 12 states, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), leading to the hospitalization of all 28 affected individuals and 2 deaths since late May.
In an investigation notice posted late last week, the CDC reported that 16 out of 18 sickened people (89%) had eaten meats sliced at deli counters, not packaged meats. The two fatalities occurred in Illinois and New Jersey, while other affected states include Delaware, Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
“This outbreak may not be limited to the states with known illnesses, and the true number of sick people is likely higher than the number reported,” the notice stated. “This is because some people recover without medical care and are not tested for Listeria.”
The investigation is ongoing to identify the specific contaminated products, and no recalls have been issued yet.
People at risk should avoid sliced deli meats or ensure they are heated before consumption.
The CDC advises that high-risk individuals, such as pregnant women, seniors, and people with weak immune systems, should avoid eating deli-sliced meats unless they are heated to 165°F or until steaming. Additionally, any containers and surfaces that came into contact with the meats should be cleaned well with hot, soapy water.
Listeria can quickly spread through deli equipment, surfaces, hands, and food.
“Listeria spreads easily among deli equipment, surfaces, hands, and food,” the notice stated. “Refrigeration does not kill Listeria, but reheating to a high temperature before eating will eliminate any germs on the meats.”
Infection typically causes fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. Other symptoms may include headache, stiff neck, confusion, balance issues, or seizures. In pregnant women, Listeria can result in pregnancy loss or premature delivery, and it can cause life-threatening illness in newborns.
Symptoms usually start within two weeks of eating contaminated food, but can appear as soon as the same day or up to 10 weeks later. Anyone who experiences Listeria symptoms after consuming sliced deli meats should contact their healthcare provider, according to the CDC.
To reduce the risk of infection, high-risk individuals should avoid deli-sliced meats or ensure they are reheated to 165°F or until steaming, and all surfaces and containers in contact with the meats should be thoroughly cleaned with hot, soapy water.
Listeria spreads easily through deli equipment, surfaces, hands, and food.
Common symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. Other possible symptoms are headache, stiff neck, confusion, balance issues, or seizures.
In pregnant women, Listeria can cause pregnancy loss or premature delivery and can lead to life-threatening illness in newborns.