The recent listeria outbreak in deli meats has raised significant health concerns across the United States. This article provides comprehensive information on the outbreak, its impact, and the necessary precautions to ensure safety.

What is Listeria?

Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that causes listeriosis, a serious infection primarily affecting pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. The bacteria can be found in soil, water, and some animals, including poultry and cattle. It can contaminate food, particularly deli meats, leading to severe health issues.

The Outbreak

Deaths in Illinois and New Jersey.

As of July 2024, the listeria outbreak in deli meats has resulted in 28 hospitalizations and 2 deaths across 12 states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is actively investigating the outbreak to identify the specific types of deli meats involved.

Symptoms of Listeriosis

Listeriosis symptoms can vary but often include:

• Fever
• Muscle aches
• Nausea
• Diarrhea

In severe cases, the infection can spread to the nervous system, causing headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or convulsions. Pregnant women are particularly at risk, as the infection can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn.

Affected States

The outbreak has been reported in the following states:

• New York
• Illinois
• Massachusetts
• New Jersey
• Pennsylvania
• Maryland
• Virginia
• North Carolina
• Georgia
• Florida
• Texas
• California

As of July 19, 2024, a total of 28 people infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria have been reported from 12 states. Sick people’s samples were collected from May 29, 2024, to July 5, 2024. Of 28 people with information available, all have been hospitalized. One person got sick during their pregnancy and remained pregnant after recovering. Two deaths have been reported, 1 in Illinois and 1 in New Jersey.

Investigation and Response

The CDC is working with state and local health departments to trace the source of the listeria outbreak in deli meats. Investigators are collecting samples from affected individuals and testing deli meats from various locations to pinpoint the contamination source.

The majority of ill persons said they had eaten liverwurst or turkey, and some had even eaten ham. The meat was sourced from many delis at supermarket stores. DNA fingerprinting tests revealed that the germs from ill individuals had genetic similarities, indicating that the infection was most likely acquired from the same diet.

Preventive Measures

To reduce the risk of listeriosis, the CDC recommends the following precautions:

• Avoid consuming deli meats unless they are reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot.
• Clean your refrigerator, containers, and surfaces that may have come into contact with deli meats.
• Pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems should be particularly cautious.

Impact on Public Health

The listeria outbreak in deli meats has highlighted the importance of food safety and the need for stringent measures to prevent contamination. Public health officials are urging consumers to stay informed and follow safety guidelines to protect themselves and their families.