An outbreak of listeria food poisoning linked to deli-sliced meats has resulted in two deaths and over two dozen hospitalizations across a dozen states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The outbreak, which has affected 28 people, with seven cases in New York, has been connected to meats sliced at grocery store deli counters. The individuals who died were from Illinois and New Jersey.
The CDC has advised individuals who have eaten possibly contaminated food and are experiencing symptoms of listeriosis, such as fever and muscle aches, to seek medical care and inform their doctors. Listeria infections can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, muscle aches, tiredness, and more severe symptoms like stiff neck and convulsions. Pregnant individuals, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk for complications from listeria infections.
The outbreak has affected individuals aged 32 to 94, with a median age of 75. While most reported eating deli-sliced turkey, liverwurst, and ham, the CDC has not yet identified the specific source of the outbreak. Prepackaged deli meats, however, have not been connected to the outbreak. The CDC continues to investigate the source of the contaminated meats and advises caution for those consuming deli-sliced products.
Source
Photo credit www.nbcdfw.com