Pennsylvania Listeria Outbreak Linked to Deli Meat Affects 12 States, CDC Reports

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A recent listeria outbreak connected to deli meat has impacted 12 states, including Pennsylvania, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The outbreak has resulted in two deaths and at least 28 confirmed infections, but no recalls have been issued so far.

The CDC is actively investigating to identify the specific products that might be contaminated. "Products sold at the deli, especially those sliced or prepared at the deli, can be contaminated with listeria," the CDC stated.

Reports indicate the median age of those infected is 75. The states with reported infections are:

• New York (7 cases)
• Maryland (6 cases)
• Virginia (2 cases)
• New Jersey (2 cases)
• Massachusetts (2 cases)
• Georgia (2 cases)
• Missouri (2 cases)
• Illinois (1 case)
• Pennsylvania (1 case)
• North Carolina (1 case)
• Wisconsin (1 case)
• Minnesota (1 case)

The two fatalities occurred in Illinois and New Jersey.

The CDC has warned that the outbreak "may not be limited to the states with known illnesses." Samples from infected individuals were collected between May 29 and July 5, and recent cases may not yet be reported. It can take up to four weeks to confirm if a person is part of an outbreak.

While investigators continue to pinpoint the contaminated products, the most commonly consumed meats among those affected were turkey, liverwurst, and ham. There is no evidence that prepackaged deli meats are causing the infections.

Listeria is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, those over 65, and individuals with weakened immune systems. The bacteria can easily spread through deli equipment, surfaces, hands, and food. The CDC advises these groups to avoid eating deli meat unless it is reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot, which kills potential germs. Refrigeration alone does not kill listeria.

Symptoms of listeria infection typically begin with diarrhea and vomiting within 24 hours of consuming contaminated food, lasting one to three days. For non-pregnant individuals, symptoms can also include fever, muscle aches, tiredness, headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures. Pregnant women may experience fever, muscle aches, and tiredness, but the infection can lead to pregnancy loss, premature birth, or severe illness or death in newborns.

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