As U.S. health officials investigate a fatal outbreak of listeria food poisoning, they’re advising people who are pregnant, elderly, or have compromised immune systems to avoid eating sliced deli meat unless it’s reheated to steaming hot at home.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has not yet issued a food recall, as it remains unclear which specific products are contaminated. The outbreak, linked to deli meats, has caused two deaths and 28 hospitalizations across 12 states. This means the contaminated food may still be in circulation, and consumers should consider their personal risk when consuming deli meats.
Federal health officials warned that the number of illnesses is likely underreported because those who recover at home may not be tested. The outbreak might have spread beyond the states with reported cases, primarily in the Midwest and along the U.S. eastern coast. New York has the highest number of reported cases, with seven, while the deceased were from Illinois and New Jersey.
Investigation Findings
Among the individuals interviewed, 89% reported eating deli-sliced meats such as turkey, liverwurst, and ham from various supermarket and grocery store delis. Genetic testing indicates that the bacteria from these cases are closely related, suggesting that deli-sliced meats are the likely source of the outbreak.
Symptoms and Risks
Listeria infections typically cause fever, muscle aches, and fatigue, and can lead to severe symptoms such as a stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. Symptoms may appear soon after consumption or up to 10 weeks later. The infection is especially dangerous for older adults and those with weakened immune systems. Pregnant individuals face increased risks, including potential miscarriages.
Safe Practices
Currently, there is no evidence that prepackaged deli meats are causing illnesses. For at-risk individuals, reheating deli meats to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) can kill any present bacteria. The CDC has long recommended that high-risk groups avoid eating meats sliced at the deli or ensure they are heated thoroughly before consumption.
Past Outbreaks
Listeria has previously triggered recalls of various products, including cheeses, bean dips, milk, mushrooms, packaged salads, and ice cream.
For further details, please refer to the CDC’s official guidance and updates on this outbreak.
