Public health officials are urging consumers to avoid eating sliced deli meats following a nationwide outbreak of listeria infections linked to contaminated meat. The outbreak has already claimed multiple lives and sickened dozens more.
A deadly listeria outbreak has prompted public health officials to issue a stern warning against consuming sliced deli meats. The outbreak, which has claimed multiple lives and sickened dozens more, has been traced to contaminated meat.
Listeria Outbreak: Deli Meats Linked to Deadly Infections
Investigators from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are working diligently to trace the source of the outbreak. They have identified deli meats as the likely source and are urging consumers to avoid eating any sliced deli meats, regardless of the brand or store.
Listeria is a bacterium that can cause severe infections, including meningitis, septicemia, and spontaneous abortion in pregnant women. It is particularly dangerous for people with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly, young children, and those with chronic illnesses.
Public health officials are urging consumers to avoid eating any sliced deli meats, including:
* Ham
* Turkey
* Roast beef
* Pastrami
* Salami
These meats should be avoided even if they appear to be fully cooked. Cooking does not kill listeria, and refrigeration only slows its growth.
Symptoms of listeria infection typically appear within 1 to 4 weeks after consuming contaminated food. Common symptoms include:
* Fever
* Chills
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Muscle aches
* Confusion
In severe cases, listeria infection can lead to hospitalization and even death.
Pregnant women, the elderly, young children, and people with weakened immune systems are particularly susceptible to listeria infection. These individuals should take extra precautions to avoid consuming contaminated food.
In addition to avoiding sliced deli meats, consumers should also take the following precautions:
* Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling food.
* Clean and disinfect surfaces that come into contact with raw meat.
* Cook meat thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Refrigerate cooked meat promptly.
Public health officials believe that there are likely more cases of listeria infections that have not yet been reported. They are urging anyone who has consumed sliced deli meats recently and is experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention immediately.
The investigation into the listeria outbreak is ongoing. Public health officials are working to identify the specific source of the contamination and prevent further infections. Consumers are urged to stay informed and follow public health recommendations.
