A listeria outbreak linked to deli meats has resulted in 2 deaths and 28 illnesses across 12 states, prompting the CDC to launch an investigation into the contamination source.

The CDC is actively investigating the outbreak, which has most impacted states like New York with seven cases, and led to fatalities in Illinois and New Jersey. Listeria monocytogenes, the bacteria responsible for listeriosis, poses severe health risks, especially to pregnant individuals, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. As a precaution, the CDC recommends that high-risk individuals avoid consuming deli meats unless reheated to 165°F and urges anyone showing symptoms of listeriosis to seek medical attention promptly.

The investigation aims to identify the specific deli meat products that may be contaminated. While the exact source has yet to be confirmed, it is clear that the outbreak has a widespread impact, with reported illnesses spanning Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

Listeria monocytogenes causes listeriosis, a serious infection that can be particularly harmful to certain groups of people. Specifically, it poses substantial risks to pregnant individuals, individuals aged 65 or older, and those with weakened immune systems. These groups are urged to take extra precautions due to their higher susceptibility to severe outcomes from the infection.

Listeriosis can manifest with a range of symptoms. In non-pregnant individuals, common symptoms include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and even seizures. For pregnant people, listeriosis is especially dangerous as it can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection in newborns.

The CDC emphasizes that listeria spreads easily. Contamination can occur through deli equipment, surfaces, hands, and food, making it vital for deli workers and consumers alike to maintain stringent hygiene practices. The bacteria's ability to spread through these mediums underscores the importance of proper food handling and preparation techniques.

The timeline for the onset of listeriosis symptoms can vary significantly. Symptoms may begin as early as the same day of consuming contaminated food or take up to 70 days to appear, adding complexity to tracing the source of the outbreak. This variability necessitates ongoing vigilance and awareness among those who may have consumed potentially contaminated deli products.

Health authorities recommend reheating deli meats to an internal temperature of 165°F for high-risk individuals to mitigate the risk of infection. This recommendation aims to eliminate any potential bacteria present in the meats, thereby reducing the risk of listeriosis among susceptible populations.

The CDC advises anyone exhibiting symptoms of listeriosis following the consumption of deli meats to contact a healthcare provider immediately. Early medical intervention is crucial, especially for individuals in high-risk categories, to manage and treat the infection effectively.

As the investigation continues, the CDC remains committed to identifying the contaminated products and preventing further cases. Consumers are encouraged to follow all safety recommendations and stay informed through updates from health authorities to ensure their wellbeing.

This outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety practices both at commercial establishments and at home. Until more information is available, following the CDC’s guidelines is the best course of preventive action.