According to officials, deli counter meat is linked to the outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes.
Officials have reported that 28 individuals from 12 different states have been hospitalized, and unfortunately, two deaths have occurred- one in Illinois and one in New Jersey.
CDC officials have reported that 16 out of 18 sick individuals, who were interviewed, had consumed deli meats sliced at deli counters. The investigation regarding the deli meat that may have been contaminated is still in progress.
Officials have stated that there is currently no evidence to suggest that prepackaged deli meats are making people ill.
CDC officials recommend that people who are more susceptible to falling ill with Listeria should refrain from consuming deli meats that are sliced at deli counters, unless they are heated to an internal temperature of 165 degrees before being served.
It is important for people to also sanitize their refrigerators, surfaces, and containers that might have been exposed to sliced deli meats.
When Listeria bacteria spreads beyond the gut to other parts of the body, it can lead to severe illness.
Officials have reported that pregnant individuals may experience symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and muscle aches. They have also warned that if a pregnant person contracts a Listeria infection, it could result in miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or a life-threatening infection for the newborn.
In addition to fever and muscle aches, individuals who are not pregnant may also experience headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance or convulsions.
According to officials, symptoms of Listeria infection typically emerge within one to four weeks after consuming contaminated food. However, it is possible for symptoms to manifest as early as the same day or as late as 70 days after exposure.
