Listeria outbreak: CDC issues warning, 6 confirmed Maryland cases

WASHINGTON ( DC News Now ) — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said it is investigating after two people died and dozens more have been hospitalized in relation to a Listeria outbreak linked to deli meats.

Several people in this outbreak report getting sick after eating meats sliced at deli counters. Investigators are gathering information to determine the specific products that may be contaminated, and as of the organization’s latest update, the CDC has not issued any recalls.

The illness has been reported across 12 states, with 28 hospitalizations and two deaths as of July 19, according to an investigation notice released by the CDC . The states with the highest confirmed cases are New York (seven) and Maryland (six).

The two people who died were from Illinois and New Jersey.

The CDC said the outbreak may not be limited to states with confirmed illnesses, and the actual number of sick people is likely higher than the reported number due to some people recovering without undergoing testing.

What is Listeria?:

Listeria are bacteria that can contaminate foods, and people who eat those foods can get infected with Listeria (listeriosis).

According to the CDC , Listeria is especially harmful to pregnant women, people 65 or older and people with weakened immune systems.

For more information on Listeria symptoms, visit the CDC website .

What people at higher risk should do:

• Do not eat meats you get sliced at any deli counter unless it is reheated to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit or until steaming. Let it cool before consumption.
• Clean your refrigerator, containers and any surfaces that may have touched sliced deli meats.
• Call your healthcare provider if you have any of these symptoms:
  • People who are not pregnant usually have fever, muscle aches and tiredness. They may also get a headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance or seizures.
  • Pregnant people usually have fever, muscle aches and tiredness. Listeria can cause pregnancy loss or premature birth. It can also cause serious illness or death in newborns.

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