How to Handle Deli Meats During the Listeria Outbreak

CDC Investigates Listeria Outbreak

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating a deadly outbreak of listeria food poisoning. As of now, health officials advise pregnant women, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems to avoid eating sliced deli meat unless it is reheated at home until steaming hot.

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No Food Recall Yet

The CDC has not issued a food recall because the specific contaminated products are still unknown. The outbreak has caused two deaths and 28 hospitalizations across 12 states. This means contaminated deli meats may still be available in stores, so consumers should be cautious and assess their risk before consuming these products.

Spread of the Outbreak

Federal health officials warn that the number of reported illnesses is likely an undercount. Many people who recover at home are not tested, which means the outbreak could be more widespread than reported. Most cases have been reported in the Midwest and along the U.S. eastern coast, with New York having the highest number of cases.

Source of the Outbreak

The CDC’s investigation found that 89% of interviewed patients reported eating meats sliced at a deli, especially turkey, liverwurst, and ham. These meats were purchased from various supermarket and grocery store delis. Genetic testing of bacteria samples from victims suggests that deli-sliced meats are a likely source of the outbreak.

Symptoms of Listeria Infection

Listeria infections can cause fever, muscle aches, and tiredness, with symptoms appearing quickly or up to 10 weeks after consuming contaminated food. Severe cases can lead to stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. Infections can be diagnosed through blood, urine, or spinal fluid tests.

At-Risk Groups

Listeria is particularly dangerous for people over 65 and those with weakened immune systems. In the current outbreak, victims range from 32 to 94 years old, with a median age of 75. Pregnant women are also at higher risk, as listeria can increase the chance of miscarriage.

Treating Listeria

Intestinal listeriosis, which affects the gut, can often be treated with extra fluids during diarrhea. Invasive listeriosis, which spreads beyond the gut, is more serious and requires antibiotics to prevent blood infections and brain inflammation.

Safe Handling of Deli Meats

So far, there is no evidence that prepackaged deli meats are causing infections. At-risk individuals with deli meat in their fridge should reheat it until steaming hot to kill any listeria bacteria. The CDC recommends heating deli meats to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Historical Context

The CDC advises high-risk individuals to avoid deli-sliced meats or reheat them before eating. Past listeria outbreaks have led to recalls of various products, including cheeses, bean dips, milk, mushrooms, packaged salads, and ice cream.

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References

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• Mayo Clinic