The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is urging consumers to avoid eating sliced deli meat after an ongoing listeria outbreak has resulted in two fatalities and multiple hospitalizations across the United States. The CDC has identified a link between the outbreak and sliced deli meats, particularly those purchased at deli counters in grocery stores and other retail establishments.
The United States is grappling with a severe listeria outbreak that has already claimed two lives and resulted in a significant number of hospitalizations across multiple states. The outbreak, linked to sliced deli meat, has prompted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to issue an urgent warning to consumers, urging them to refrain from consuming any sliced deli meat until further notice.
Multistate Listeria Outbreak from Sliced Deli Meat Claims Two Lives
The outbreak has been traced to contamination of sliced deli meats with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause the potentially fatal infection listeriosis. This infection can lead to serious complications, particularly among individuals with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, and newborns. Symptoms of listeriosis can include fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
The CDC has identified 16 confirmed cases of listeriosis in six states: California, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York. Among these cases, two individuals succumbed to the infection, and several others were hospitalized. The outbreak has been ongoing since September 2022.
Deli counters in grocery stores and other retail establishments are believed to be the primary source of contamination. The CDC recommends that consumers avoid purchasing sliced deli meat until further notice, including from delis, meat counters, or any other establishments where it is sold. Prepackaged sliced deli meat should also be discarded as it may also be contaminated.
Instead of sliced deli meat, consumers are advised to opt for alternatives such as whole, unprocessed meats that can be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Hot dogs, deli salads, soft cheeses, and unpasteurized milk should also be avoided.
The CDC is collaborating closely with state health departments and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate the outbreak and identify the specific source of contamination. The agency is urging consumers who have recently consumed sliced deli meat and are experiencing symptoms of listeriosis to seek medical attention immediately.
Listeriosis can be treated with antibiotics, but early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Pregnant women, individuals with weakened immune systems, and newborns are strongly advised to take extra precautions to prevent infection. They should avoid consuming high-risk foods, practice good hand hygiene, and maintain a clean environment.
The CDC continues to monitor the outbreak and provide updates as they become available. Consumers are urged to adhere to the warnings and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from listeria infection. By working together, we can mitigate the spread of this outbreak and prevent further harm.
