The Centers for Disease Control has confirmed an ongoing investigation into a nationwide outbreak of listeria that has been linked to sliced deli meats.
28 people were hospitalized and two individuals lost their lives due to the outbreak, with one being from New Jersey.
If you’re looking for information on the listeria outbreak that’s causing extensive harm, here’s what you should know.
Where is the listeria outbreak?
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According to the CDC, 12 states have reported the listeria outbreak.
The states that are included in this list are New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Massachusetts, Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, Missouri, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.
What are the symptoms of listeria infection?
According to the CDC, the common symptoms of listeria infection are as follows:
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- fever
- flu-like symptoms, such as muscle aches and fatigue
- headache
- stiff neck
- confusion
- loss of balance
- seizures
- diarrhea
- vomiting
What brands are involved in the listeria outbreak?
Officials have not yet identified specific brands of sliced deli meats that are linked to the majority of cases of listeria. However, it has been found that sliced turkey, liverwurst, and ham are the most common types of deli meats associated with listeria.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that currently, there are no recalls associated with the deli meats.
How can I prevent getting sick from listeria?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is cautioning individuals in high-risk categories, such as pregnant women, those over the age of 65, and those with weakened immune systems, to refrain from consuming sliced meats from deli counters.
According to the CDC, individuals who are at low risk of contracting listeria can safely consume deli meat if it is reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until it is steaming hot. The meat should be cooled before eating, as heating it to a high enough temperature will effectively eliminate any listeria present in the meat.
It is highly recommended by the agency that individuals thoroughly clean their refrigerators, containers, or counters that may have been in contact with sliced deli meats.
