Listeria Outbreak Linked to Deli Meats: Avoid Recalled Products Now 2024

Listeria Outbreak Linked to Deli Meats: What You Need to Know

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Investigation Start Date: July 19, 2024.
Current Status: The investigation is ongoing, with more illnesses and deaths reported.
Source: Contaminated deli meats, especially those sliced at delis, including Boar’s Head liverwurst, are linked to the outbreak.

Cases: 57 reported cases, including 14 new ones.
Hospitalizations: All 57 individuals have been hospitalized, including 14 new admissions.
Deaths: 9 deaths have occurred, with 6 new fatalities reported.
Affected Areas: 18 states are involved, with 5 new states reporting cases.

Hardy Bacteria: Listeria can survive on surfaces like deli slicers and food, even in cold, refrigerated environments.
Long Incubation Period: Symptoms of listeriosis can take up to 10 weeks to appear after exposure.
Severe Illness: Listeria can cause severe illness, especially in vulnerable groups like pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

Deli Meats: Meats sliced at delis, particularly Boar’s Head liverwurst, have been found contaminated with Listeria. The bacteria can spread easily through deli equipment, surfaces, and even hands.
Refrigeration Isn’t Enough: Listeria can continue to grow in refrigerated environments, making it crucial to handle and prepare deli meats safely.

Boar’s Head Liverwurst: Ready-to-eat liverwurst products produced between June 11, 2024, and July 17, 2024, with a 44-day shelf life.
Sell-By Dates: The affected products have sell-by dates ranging from July 25, 2024, to August 30, 2024.
Additional Deli Products: Boar’s Head has also recalled all other deli products produced within this timeframe. Look for “EST. 12612” or “P-12612” on the product labels.
Boar’s Head Provisions Co. Expands Recall for Ready-To-Eat Meat and Poultry Products Due to Possible Listeria Contamination | Food Safety and Inspection Service (usda.gov)

Avoid Recalled Products: Do not eat any of the recalled meats. Dispose of them safely or return them to the store for a refund.
Check Your Refrigerator: Inspect your fridge for any potentially contaminated deli meats. If you find any, throw them away or return them to the store.
Clean Thoroughly: Clean your refrigerator, containers, and surfaces that may have come into contact with recalled meats. Listeria can grow on surfaces, so it’s essential to sanitize everything properly.
Best Practices Guidance for Controlling Listeria monocytogenes in Retail Delicatessens | Food Safety and Inspection Service (usda.gov)

Who Is at Risk?

Pregnant Women: Listeria can cause pregnancy complications, including miscarriage, premature birth, or serious illness in newborns.
Elderly (65+): Older adults are more susceptible to severe illness from Listeria, often leading to hospitalization.
Weakened Immune System: Those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk of severe complications.
Safe Practices:
- Avoid All Deli Meats: If you belong to an at-risk group, avoid eating any deli meats unless they are reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot. Let them cool before consuming.
- Clean Regularly: Ensure your refrigerator and any surfaces that might have touched deli meats are cleaned regularly.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
- Symptoms in Pregnant Women: Fever, muscle aches, and tiredness. Listeria can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women and their babies.
- Symptoms in Others: Fever, muscle aches, tiredness, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures.
Symptoms of Listeria Infection | Listeria Infection | CDC

Delis Handling Recalled Products:
Clean and Sanitize: Thoroughly clean and sanitize all food and non-food surfaces, including deli slicers.
Dispose of Open Products: Discard any opened meats and cheeses in the deli to prevent cross-contamination.
Follow Guidelines: Adhere to USDA-FSIS best practices for controlling Listeria contamination in deli areas.

For Pregnant Women:
- Common Symptoms: Fever, muscle aches, and tiredness.
- Potential Complications: Listeria can cause pregnancy loss, premature birth, or life-threatening infection in newborns.
For Elderly and Immunocompromised Individuals:
- Common Symptoms: Fever, muscle aches, tiredness, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures.
Serious Outcomes: Listeria often leads to hospitalization and, in severe cases, death.
Incubation Period: Symptoms can start as early as the same day of exposure or as late as 10 weeks after consuming contaminated food.

Regular Updates: Stay informed about the latest developments in the Listeria outbreak. More details on recalled products and safety measures can be found through official health channels.