A recent listeria outbreak linked to sliced deli meats has resulted in two deaths and 28 hospitalizations across eleven states in the Midwest and East Coast. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified deli-sliced turkey, liverwurst, and ham as the primary sources of contamination. This outbreak has raised significant concerns, especially for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Here’s a detailed look at the situation and what you need to know to stay safe.
The Scope of the Outbreak
The listeria outbreak has affected a wide range of states, with reported cases in New York, Maryland, Missouri, Virginia, Georgia, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Massachusetts. The ages of those affected range from 32 to 94, with a median age of 75. The majority of the patients identified as white, with a smaller percentage identifying as Black or African American and Asian. The CDC has been actively investigating the outbreak, focusing on meats sliced at deli counters.
The CDC’s investigation revealed that 16 out of 18 patients had consumed meats sliced at deli counters. These meats included turkey, liverwurst, and ham. There is currently no evidence that prepackaged deli meats are involved in the outbreak. The CDC recommends that individuals at higher risk of listeria infection avoid eating meats sliced at deli counters unless they are heated to 165 degrees or are steaming hot.
Listeria is a genus of bacteria that can cause severe illness when it spreads from the gut to other parts of the body. Symptoms typically start a week to four weeks after consuming contaminated food and can include headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, convulsions, fever, and muscle aches. In some cases, symptoms can appear as early as the same day or up to 70 days after exposure.
Impact on Vulnerable Populations
Listeria poses a significant risk to certain groups, including pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. For pregnant women, listeria infection can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn. The CDC advises pregnant women to avoid deli meats unless they are heated to steaming hot before consumption.
Elderly individuals and those with weakened immune systems are also at higher risk of severe illness from listeria. These groups should take extra precautions when consuming deli meats. The CDC recommends that these individuals avoid deli meats unless they are heated to 165 degrees or are steaming hot. If symptoms of listeria infection appear, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
The CDC continues to monitor the situation and provide updates as new information becomes available. Public health officials are working to identify the source of the contamination and prevent further cases. Consumers are urged to follow food safety guidelines to reduce the risk of listeria infection.
Preventive Measures and Recommendations
To minimize the risk of listeria infection, the CDC recommends several preventive measures. First, individuals should avoid consuming deli meats unless they are heated to 165 degrees or are steaming hot. This is especially important for pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Additionally, it is essential to practice good hygiene when handling and preparing food.
Consumers should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food. Cutting boards, utensils, and countertops should be cleaned and sanitized regularly. It is also important to store deli meats properly, keeping them refrigerated at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below. If any signs of spoilage are present, the meat should be discarded immediately.
Public health officials are also advising consumers to stay informed about the latest updates on the listeria outbreak. The CDC provides regular updates and recommendations on its website. By staying informed and following food safety guidelines, individuals can reduce their risk of listeria infection and protect their health.
