The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning regarding a listeria outbreak linked to deli meats, resulting in two fatalities and 28 illnesses across at least 12 states. Consumers are urged to avoid certain deli meats and take precautions to prevent infection.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an urgent warning regarding a listeria outbreak linked to deli meats. The outbreak, which has been identified in at least 12 states, has claimed two lives and sickened 28 individuals. Listeria monocytogenes, the bacterium responsible for the outbreak, can cause severe food poisoning, particularly among pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
The CDC is advising consumers to avoid consuming deli meats, including sliced meats and cold cuts, from the following brands:
Listeria Outbreak Prompts Warnings from CDC: Deli Meats Implicated
* Fresh Express Sweet Italian-style Mezzaluna Kit
* Fresh Express Italian-style Antipasto Kit
* Fresh Express Southwest-style Black Bean & Corn Kit
* Wawona Avocado, Onion & Tomato Salad
* Dole Salads
These products have been implicated in the outbreak and should not be consumed. Additionally, the CDC recommends that individuals discard any leftover deli meats and thoroughly clean any surfaces or containers they may have come into contact with.
Symptoms of listeria infection typically develop within 1 to 4 weeks after consuming contaminated food and can include fever, muscle aches, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, listeria can spread to the bloodstream or central nervous system, leading to meningitis, encephalitis, or even death.
Pregnant women are particularly susceptible to listeria infection, which can result in miscarriage, stillbirth, or severe illness in newborns. Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or taking immunosuppressive medications, are also at increased risk.
The CDC is urging consumers to take precautions to prevent listeria infection. These precautions include:
* Thoroughly cooking all meat, poultry, and seafood before consumption
* Washing hands and surfaces frequently with soap and water
* Avoiding unpasteurized milk and dairy products
* Discarding any perishable food items that have been stored in the refrigerator for more than two hours
Healthcare providers should be vigilant about testing for listeria infection, particularly in individuals with symptoms that could be consistent with listeria, such as fever, nausea, and diarrhea. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing severe illness and fatalities.
The CDC is continuing to investigate the outbreak and working with state and local health departments to identify and remove contaminated products from the marketplace. Consumers are encouraged to check the CDC website for updates on the outbreak and to follow the recommended precautions to protect themselves from listeria infection.
