Health officials are continuing to investigate a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections linked to deli meats, with recent updates revealing additional illnesses and deaths. As of , a total of 57 people across 19 states have been hospitalized, and 9 deaths have been reported, marking the largest listeriosis outbreak since 2011.
The outbreak, initially identified in , has been linked to meats sliced at deli counters. More recently, the investigation has focused on products from Boar’s Head Provisions Co., prompting a recall of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products produced at its Virginia-based facilities. The recall was initiated after a sample of Boar’s Head liverwurst tested positive for the outbreak strain of Listeria.
Understanding Listeriosis
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause a serious infection called listeriosis. While many people experience mild symptoms like fever, muscle aches, and fatigue, the infection can be particularly dangerous for certain populations: pregnant individuals, adults 65 years or older, and people with weakened immune systems.
For pregnant people, listeriosis can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn. In others, the infection can spread beyond the gut, causing a severe condition known as invasive listeriosis. Symptoms of invasive listeriosis can include headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions, in addition to fever and muscle aches. Symptoms typically start 1 to 4 weeks after consuming contaminated food, but can appear as early as the same day or as late as 70 days after exposure.
Recent Developments and Impact
Since the last update on , 14 additional illnesses have been reported, and six new deaths have been confirmed, bringing the total number of fatalities to nine. The deaths have occurred in Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York (two deaths), South Carolina (two deaths), Tennessee, and Virginia. One person who became ill during pregnancy remained pregnant after recovering from the infection.
Inspectors at a Boar’s Head facility reportedly found black mold and bugs, raising concerns about sanitation practices. The company has paused operations at the affected facilities while implementing enhanced cleaning and safety protocols.
What Should Consumers Do?
Health officials urge consumers to take the following precautions:
- Do not eat recalled deli products. Throw them away or return them to the store where they were purchased.
- Check refrigerators for recalled products. Even products with sell-by dates into should be discarded if they fall under the recall. Look for “EST. 12612” or “P-12612” inside the USDA mark of inspection on the product labels.
- Clean refrigerators, containers, and surfaces that may have come into contact with recalled deli meats.
- Individuals at higher risk – pregnant people, those aged 65 or older, and those with weakened immune systems – should avoid eating meats sliced at deli counters unless they are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) or until steaming hot immediately before serving.
The Persistence of Listeria
Listeria is a resilient bacterium that can survive and even grow at refrigerated temperatures. It can also persist on surfaces, including meat slicers, making thorough cleaning and sanitation crucial. The long shelf life of deli meats and the potential for delayed symptom onset – up to 10 weeks – underscore the importance of vigilance.
Looking Ahead
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) continue to investigate the outbreak and provide updates as new information becomes available. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about the recall and follow food safety recommendations to protect themselves and their families. Anyone experiencing symptoms of listeriosis, particularly if they have recently consumed deli meats, should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
