At least 28 people from 12 states have been hospitalized due to a Listeria outbreak tied to sliced deli meats, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Sadly, this outbreak has resulted in two deaths.
According to the source, The CDC is actively investigating the situation.
They recommend that those at higher risk for listeriosis, including pregnant individuals, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, should heat deli meats to 165°F before eating.
The CDC suspects that the true number of infections could be higher than reported because some people may recover without medical care or testing.
Most of the affected individuals had deli meats sliced at store counters, not prepackaged products.
Recent recalls include frozen ready-to-eat chicken and chia seeds due to contamination risks. However, no evidence links prepackaged deli meats to this outbreak.
The outbreak mainly involved people who consumed deli-sliced turkey, liverwurst, and ham. The CDC has not yet identified the specific type of deli meat causing the illness.
Listeria can easily spread through deli equipment, surfaces, hands, and food. Refrigeration doesn’t kill the bacteria, but reheating meat to a high temperature will eliminate germs.
Those most at risk include pregnant individuals, people aged 65 or older, and those with weakened immune systems. It is crucial for these groups to heat and cool meats properly and maintain clean surfaces.
Symptoms of Listeria infection include fever, muscle aches, tiredness, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures.
If you experience these symptoms, especially if you’re not pregnant, contact your healthcare provider. Symptoms can appear quickly or up to 10 weeks after consuming contaminated food.
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The infection is particularly dangerous for older adults, those with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women, who may suffer from miscarriages.
The outbreak affects individuals aged 32 to 94, with a median age of 75. One pregnant person was affected but managed to retain the pregnancy.