The American CDC has linked the outbreak with meat cut at grocery store deli counters
At least two people have died and more than two dozen have been hospitalized in the US due to an outbreak of listeria food poisoning, or listeriosis, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced on Friday. Listeriosis is a relatively rare bacterial illness considered one of the most severe foodborne infections, with a high fatality rate.
The CDC stated that they initiated an investigation following the deaths of two individuals, one in Illinois and one in New Jersey, from the disease. At least 28 others have been admitted to the hospital. Listeriosis cases have been reported in 12 states, with the highest number of infections in New York.
The CDC indicated that the outbreak has spanned several weeks, with the first case reported at the end of May and the most recent case occurring earlier this month. The agency noted that the actual number of individuals affected by the outbreak could be higher, as some infected individuals may have experienced milder symptoms or were not tested for listeria.
A majority of those infected reported consuming meat sliced at grocery store deli counters within the month prior to their illness. In most cases, individuals reported eating either deli-sliced turkey, liverwurst, or ham. However, the CDC stated that they do not currently possess sufficient information to determine which specific meats or stores are the source of the outbreak.
Earlier this week, Canadian health authorities also reported a listeriosis outbreak resulting in the deaths of two individuals. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency announced on Thursday that the outbreak currently involves 12 people from three states. Authorities have linked the illnesses to plant-based milk products under the Silk and Great Value brands. Both products have been recalled.
According to the World Health Organization, listeria can cause disorientation, fever, diarrhea, muscle aches, and convulsions, while in severe cases it can also lead to septicemia and meningitis. Refrigeration does not eliminate the bacteria, which readily survives and multiplies at low temperatures. However, it is susceptible to heat.
The incubation period for listeriosis ranges from a few days to 12 weeks after consuming contaminated food. The disease poses a particularly high risk to vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems, including cancer patients, the elderly, and infants.