The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are currently investigating an outbreak of Listeria linked to deli-sliced meats. This outbreak has tragically resulted in two deaths and has spread across 12 states. Here are the key details you should be aware of.
What Is Listeria?
Listeria monocytogenes, often simply called Listeria, is a type of bacteria that can lead to a foodborne illnessknown as listeriosis. It is commonly in soil and water. Listeria can contaminate a variety of foods, including raw vegetables, meat, dairy products, and processed foods. Unlike many other bacteria, this bacteria can grow and multiply even in cold temperatures such as those found in refrigerators. This resilience makes it a significant concern in food safety, as it can survive and even thrive in environments where other bacteria would not.
The Origin of The Outbreak
Where Is The Outbreak Currently Occurring?
According to the CDC’s report on July 19, the outbreak has been found in 12 states across the US. These states include:
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Pennsylvania
- Virginia
- Wisconsin
Currently, New York has recorded the highest number of cases with seven individuals affected. Maryland follows closely with six reported illnesses. Georgia, Massachusetts, Missouri, New Jersey, and Virginia have each reported two cases. The remaining states have reported one case each.
What Symptoms Does A Listeria Infection Typically Present?
- Muscle fatigue and soreness
- Seizures
- Difficulty in maintaining balance
- Stiffness in the neck
- Headaches
- Fever
- Confusion
For those who are pregnant the infection can lead to the loss of the pregnancy, cause a premature birth, or a serious infection in their newborn that poses a life-threatening risk. For those with a weakened immune system or for people who are over the age of 65 years old it is common for individuals with the infection to end up in the hospital, or in some cases they may pass away as a result of the infection.
Symptoms typically begin within 2 weeks after consuming food contaminated with Listeria, though they can appear as soon as the same day or as late as 10 weeks afterward. For people who are pregnant symptoms can be less severe.
What Steps Should individuals At High Risk Take?
If you are pregnant ,65 years old or older, or because of specific medical conditions or treatments have a weakened immune system you are considered high risk. For those that are high risk Listeria can be particularly harmful to you, while other individuals can be infected with it, it is unlikely for them to become gravely ill.
Written by Jaliyah Triplett
Sources:
CDC: Listeria Outbreak Linked to Meats Sliced at Delis
Fast Company: Deadly Listeria outbreak may be linked to deli meats: Map of states, symptoms to watch by Michael Grothaus
WJCL: Deadly listeria outbreak tied to sliced deli meat sold in Georgia, 10 other states by CNN
Featured Image Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons Google Images- Creative Commons License
Inset Image Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons Google Images- Creative Commons License
