Two dead and 28 hospitalized in Listeria outbreak linked to sliced deli meats

At least 28 people across 12 states have been infected with Listeria after consuming sliced deli meats, resulting in two deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The CDC is currently investigating the situation and advises those at higher risk for listeriosis to heat meat to 165 degrees Fahrenheit before consumption.

While the map below indicates known cases, the CDC suspects the actual number of people affected is likely higher than reported due to individuals recovering without medical care and not getting tested. Many people involved in this outbreak reportedly consumed meats sliced at deli counters, says the CDC.

Many of the people in the outbreak reported eating meats that were sliced at grocery store deli counters. So far, there’s no information showing that people are getting sick from prepackaged deli meats, the CDC said.

People most commonly reported eating deli-sliced turkey, liverwurst and ham, officials said. CDC doesn’t have enough information to say which deli meats are the source of the outbreak.

Listeria can easily spread among deli equipment, surfaces, hands, and food. Although refrigeration won't kill it, reheating at a high enough temperature will eliminate all germs on the meats.

Those most at risk include pregnant individuals, those aged 65 or older, or those with a weakened immune system. People are advised to warm up their meats and let them cool before eating, as well as clean their surfaces.

If you're experiencing symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, tiredness, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures, it's recommended to contact your healthcare provider. This advice applies if you're not pregnant.

Listeria infections typically cause fever, muscle aches and tiredness and may cause stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and convulsions. Symptoms can occur quickly or to up to 10 weeks after eating contaminated food. The infections are especially dangerous for people older than 65, those with weakened immune systems and pregnant people, who can have miscarriages.

This outbreak includes people aged 32 to 94, with a median age of 75. One pregnant person got sick, but retained the pregnancy, officials said.