Listeria Alert: Safety Tips for Deli Meat Lovers

Outbreak Details & Affected States

The CDC has confirmed cases in Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Wisconsin. New York has the highest number of reported infections, with seven cases. Tragically, two deaths have occurred, one in Illinois and one in New Jersey.

Understanding Listeria & Its Spread

Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that causes listeriosis, a serious infection most frequently brought on by consuming contaminated food. This bacterium is particularly concerning because it can survive and even grow under refrigeration, a property uncommon among foodborne pathogens. According to the CDC, Listeria can quickly spread among deli equipment, surfaces, hands, and food, making deli counters a common source of contamination.

Symptoms of listeriosis can range from mild to severe. Mild symptoms include fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Severe cases can lead to headaches, stiff necks, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. For pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems, the infection can be particularly dangerous.

CDC Recommendations

The CDC strongly advises high-risk groups, including pregnant people, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems, to avoid eating deli meats unless reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot just before serving. This precaution is crucial because refrigeration alone does not kill Listeria bacteria.

Ongoing investigation

Health officials are currently investigating to identify the specific deli products responsible for the outbreak. Until the contaminated products are identified, the CDC recommends avoiding deli meats or ensuring they are thoroughly heated. The agency also emphasizes the importance of cleaning refrigerators, containers, and surfaces that may have come into contact with contaminated meats.

Preventing Listeria Infections

To prevent listeriosis, it is essential to follow safe food handling practices. These include washing hands, utensils, and surfaces before and after handling food and separating raw meat from other foods to avoid cross-contamination. Consumers should also be mindful of the risks associated with unpasteurized dairy products and raw vegetables that may have come into contact with contaminated soil or fertilizer.

Other Foodborne Illnesses to Watch For

While the current focus is on Listeria, other foodborne illnesses pose significant health risks. These include Salmonella, E. coli, Hepatitis A, and Norovirus. These pathogens can cause severe illness and have been linked to various foods, from undercooked meats and poultry to contaminated fruits and vegetables.

• Salmonella is commonly associated with poultry and eggs but can contaminate dairy products, fruits, and leafy greens. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps
• E. coli infections often stem from ground beef but can also be found in contaminated produce and unpasteurized juices. Symptoms include severe cramping, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting
• Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection that can be spread through close contact with an infected person or by consuming contaminated food or water. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, lethargy, and jaundice
• Norovirus is known to cause outbreaks in food-service settings such as restaurants and cruise ships. It leads to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain

Public Health Response

Public health officials continue to work diligently to identify the source of the current Listeria outbreak. The CDC encourages anyone experiencing symptoms of listeriosis, especially those in high-risk groups, to seek medical attention promptly. Accurate diagnosis and reporting are critical to controlling the spread of the infection and preventing further cases.

As the investigation unfolds, consumers must stay informed and follow the CDC’s guidelines to minimize the risk of infection. For the latest updates on the outbreak and food safety recommendations, individuals are advised to visit the CDC’s official website and contact their state health departments.