CDC news: an outbreak of Listeria infections linked to deli counter meats in 12 states including MO

Photo byAneta VoborilovaonUnsplash

On Friday, July 19, 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced its investigating a multi-state outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections linked to deli sliced meats.

According to the press release, 28 people across 12 states have been hospitalized. Those states included are indicated on the below map.

This map shows where the 28 people in this Listeria outbreak lived.Photo byCDC.

It's possible the true number of those infected hasn't been discovered because some people get infected and recover from it.

It continues to be an active investigation. Those who are part of this outbreak indicated they eat meats sliced at deli counters. These types of meats can be contaminated with Listeria which then can spread to equipment in the deli, hands, surfaces, and food.

Refrigeration does not kill Listeria, but reheating to a high enough temperature before eating will kill any germs that may be on these meats. (Source.)

The CDC suggests if you purchase any meat at your store's deli counter, do not eat it unless you heat it at an internal temperature of 165°F or until it's steaming hot. If contaminated meat is in your refrigerator, the Listeria can grow on other foods.

If you have consumed contaminated food, symptoms usually begin two weeks after consumption, however, symptoms "may start as early as the same day or as late as 10 weeks after." Listeria is more harmful to people who are 65 or older, or who are pregnant.

The first sickness occurred on May 29, 2024. The last person reported being sick was on July 5, 2024. The number of people sick in Missouri is two. There have also been two deaths reported in Illinois and New Jersey.

Visit here for information related to the investigation.

Thanks for reading.