CDC Warns of Listeria Outbreak Linked to Contaminated Deli Meat
Individuals in six states have reported infections.
The public is being warned of a deadly outbreak of listeria that’s been linked to contaminated deli meat and cheese.
On Wednesday, the CDC announced a total of 16 people reported infections with 13 hospitalized cases across six states: New York, Maryland, Illinois, Massachusetts, California, and New Jersey. One death was reported in Maryland, along with another case where a pregnant individual fell ill and lost the baby.
Those who were infected range in age from 38 to 92, with half of the illnesses reported in men. The CDC noted that most of the individuals identified in the outbreak are of Eastern European descent or speak Russian. Five of the seven people in New York reported purchasing sliced deli meat or cheese at a location of NetCost Market, which sells international food.
The CDC noted deli counters and food processing facilities are often a common source of listeria infection as it spreads easily and can be hard to remove.
It also acknowledge that the “true number of sick people in this outbreak is likely higher than the number reported” as many may have recovered at home. The CDC added that the “outbreak may not be limited to the states with known illnesses.”
“Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any symptoms of severe Listeria illness after eating meat or cheese from a deli,” the agency said.
Listeria is the third leading cause of death from food poisoning in the US, per the CDC. It’s especially dangerous for those who are older than 65, people with a weakened immune system and pregnant individuals.
Symptoms usually start within 24 hours after eating contaminated food and last one to three days. The first sign is diarrhea and other gastrointestinal issues followed by symptoms like headache, stiff neck, fever, muscle pain, confusion, loss of balance and convulsions.
Back in September, over 60 meat products were recalled due to possible listeria contamination.
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