On Friday, July 19, 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a statement on a lethal listeria outbreak tied to deli-sliced meats, causing two deaths and 28 hospital admissions in 12 states. The bacterial infection presents significant health threats, especially to susceptible groups.
The impact of the outbreak is mainly seen in the Midwest and East Coast, with New York reporting the highest case count of seven. The fatalities were recorded in Illinois and New Jersey. Deli-sliced turkey, liverwurst, and ham have been identified by the CDC as potential sources of the infection. Interestingly, no connection has been established between prepackaged deli meats and the outbreak, emphasizing the need for consumers to be cautious when purchasing meats sliced at deli counters.
Of the 18 infected individuals interviewed, 16 reported eating deli meats before they fell sick. The CDC is conducting additional investigations to pinpoint the exact types of meat that have been contaminated.
Listeria infections pose considerable risks to certain demographics, such as pregnant women, older adults, and those with compromised immune systems. For pregnant women, the infection can lead to severe complications like miscarriages and stillbirths. Typical symptoms include fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting and fatigue. More serious symptoms can vary from stiff neck, confusion, and loss of balance to convulsions and even meningitis. Symptoms can manifest anywhere between one day to 70 days after consuming the contaminated food.
To reduce the risk of infection, the CDC suggests that high-risk individuals refrain from eating deli meats unless they are reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until they are steaming hot. This advice also applies to meats stored in refrigerators, underlining the importance of thoroughly reheating them before eating. The CDC emphasizes the need to keep refrigerators, storage containers, and surfaces that may have come into contact with deli meats clean.
Despite the outbreak, no recall on deli meats has been issued by the CDC due to the uncertain specifics of the contaminated products. As the investigation proceeds, the CDC encourages the public to remain vigilant and report any symptoms of listeria infection to healthcare providers without delay.
The CDC’s ongoing investigation and public health advisories are vital in preventing more listeria cases. The importance of reheating deli meats and adhering to food safety practices cannot be overstressed. Public awareness and cooperation are key in managing and ultimately resolving this outbreak.
