At least two people have died and dozens more have been hospitalized in connection with a listeria outbreak linked to meat sold at U.S. deli counters, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported. According to the CDC’s latest update on Friday, twenty-eight individuals have been hospitalized across 12 states. However, the agency cautioned that the actual number of cases could be higher as some individuals might have experienced milder symptoms that did not necessitate medical intervention. The states most affected include New York, where seven cases have been confirmed, and Maryland, with six cases reported. Tragically, the fatalities occurred in Illinois and New Jersey. The CDC continues to investigate the outbreak and advises the public to remain vigilant about the potential risks associated with consuming deli meats during this period. listeria outbreak
What is listeria?
Listeria is a foodborne bacterial illness that affects around 1,600 people in the U.S. every year, with about 260 deaths. It can lead to serious and sometimes fatal infections, especially in people who are pregnant, 65 and older, children, and people with weakened immune systems. Typical symptoms include fever, muscle aches and drowsiness.
This latest outbreak is the second to hit the U.S. this summer. In June, a Maryland-based food manufacturer was forced to recall multiple brands of ice cream products sold nationwide after the Food and Drug Administration reported they may have been contaminated with listeria.
