CDC warns listeria outbreak linked to deli meat — here’s where

A warning about a Listeria monocytogenes outbreak has been issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, noting that 12 states have been affected.

According to the CDC , the outbreak is being linked to meats sliced at deli counters, resulting in 28 hospitalizations and two deaths, one in Illinois and one in New Jersey.

At the moment, New York has had the most reported infections, with seven confirmed cases.

The CDC reports that cases have appeared in Pennsylvania (1), New Jersey (2), Minnesota (1), Wisconsin (1), Missouri (2), Georgia (2), Illinois (1), North Carolina (1), Virginia (2), Maryland (6), and Massachusetts (2).

Listeria can lead to severe illness, with symptoms including fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, convulsions, and loss of balance.

The bacteria is easily spread among deli equipment, surfaces, hands, and food.

Those who are pregnant, elderly, or have weakened immune systems are being advised by the CDC to avoid eating deli meats sliced at deli counters unless heated to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit or until steaming hot just before serving.

Symptoms tend to begin one to four weeks after consuming food contaminated with the bacteria but can also appear the same day or as late as 70 days after exposure.

An investigation has been launched to collect more information into the outbreak, including what specific products may be contaminated.

Refrigeration will not kill the bacteria, but the CDC says that reheating to a high enough temperature will.