Breaking News: Listeria Outbreak Linked to Deli Meats Claims 5 More Lives, CDC Warns
In a recent announcement, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that a Listeria outbreak connected to deli meats has caused 14 new illnesses and five additional deaths. This has brought the total number of cases to 57, all of which required hospitalization, with a total of eight fatalities.
This current outbreak is now considered the largest listeriosis incident since the 2011 cantaloupe-associated outbreak. The recent deaths occurred in Florida, Tennessee, New Mexico, and South Carolina, according to the agency.
Listeria is a robust bacterium that can survive on surfaces like meat slicers and in foods, even at refrigerated temperatures. While refrigeration alone cannot kill Listeria, reheating foods to a high enough temperature before consumption can eliminate the bacteria.
The CDC's data indicates that deli meats, including Boar's Head brand liverwurst, are contaminated with Listeria and are causing illnesses. Symptoms of listeriosis, such as fever, chills, and headache, may take up to ten weeks to appear in some individuals.
The health agency strongly advises against consuming recalled deli meats and urges consumers to check for any remaining recalled products, as they can have a long shelf-life. Some of these products have sell-by dates extending into October 2024.
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This article highlights the seriousness of the Listeria outbreak linked to deli meats, which has resulted in additional illnesses and deaths. It emphasizes the importance of food safety practices, such as proper handling and reheating of foods, to prevent the spread of bacteria like Listeria. Consumers are urged to be cautious and check for recalled products to avoid potential health risks associated with this outbreak.