A listeria outbreak across 12 U.S. states has resulted in two deaths and 28 hospitalizations since May. The CDC suggests that sliced deli meats are likely linked to the outbreak. Infections have been reported in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri, Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, and Massachusetts. The two fatalities were in Illinois and New Jersey.
Sick individuals reported eating various deli-sliced meats like turkey, liverwurst, and ham before falling ill. The CDC is investigating and found that people in this outbreak more commonly ate deli-sliced turkey and liverwurst compared to those who got sick from listeria outside of this outbreak.
While the CDC has identified deli meats as a probable source, it hasn’t pinpointed which specific deli meats are involved. There is no evidence linking prepackaged deli meats to the outbreak.
The true number of cases might be higher, as some people recover without medical attention and may not be tested. The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service is working to trace the supplier of the implicated deli meats.
For safety, the CDC advises avoiding deli meats unless they are heated before eating. Those who are pregnant, over 65, or have a weakened immune system should contact their doctor if they experience listeria symptoms, which include fever, flu-like symptoms, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and seizures.
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