CDC issues warning about listeria-tainted deli meat, 2 Georgians sick

ATLANTA, Ga. —The Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control (CDC) issued a warning about listeria-tainted deli meats after two cases were reported in Georgia.

The CDC says 28 people have gotten sick in 12 states, including two in Georgia.

Two deaths were reported, including one in Illinois and one in New Jersey.

In interviews with sick people, 16 of 18 people reported eating meats sliced at deli counters, according to the CDC.

There are no reports of illnesses after eating pre-packaged deli meat.

The CDC is working to confirm which meat which company produces the meat and what groceries are involved.

If you are at high risk of getting listeria, the CDC recommends avoiding deli meat sliced at the counter and clean surfaces at home that may have touched deli meats.

Listeria during pregnancy can injure or kill the baby, according to the CDC.

What You Should Do:

• People who are at higher risk for getting sick with Listeria should avoid eating meats sliced at deli counters, unless heated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot just before serving.
• Clean your refrigerator, containers, and surfaces that may have touched sliced deli meats.
• Call your healthcare provider if you have symptoms of Listeria and recently ate meats sliced at deli counters.
• Businesses should follow USDA-FSIS best practices for controlling Listeria contamination in deli areas.