Listeria Outbreak: Deli Meat Recall & Rising Illnesses – CDC Update
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an updated alert regarding a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections linked to deli meats. As of the latest update, the outbreak has expanded, with 57 confirmed cases across 18 states, all requiring hospitalization, and tragically, 9 deaths have now been reported. This marks the largest listeriosis outbreak since 2011, when contaminated cantaloupe sickened hundreds.
Understanding the Expanding Outbreak
The current outbreak, first identified in July 2024, has been traced to meats sliced at deli counters. While initial reports focused on a smaller number of cases – 28 illnesses and 2 deaths as of July 19, 2024 – the CDC’s ongoing investigation, in collaboration with state public health officials and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS), reveals a wider scope. The recent increase of 14 illnesses since August 8, 2024, underscores the persistence of the contamination risk. The newly reported deaths occurred in Florida, Tennessee, Modern Mexico, New York, and two in South Carolina.
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause a serious infection called listeriosis. Symptoms can vary, but often include fever, muscle aches, and sometimes gastrointestinal issues. For pregnant people, listeriosis can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or life-threatening infection of the newborn. In non-pregnant individuals, symptoms can include headache, stiff neck, confusion, and loss of balance. The time between exposure and symptom onset can range from the same day to as long as 70 days, making it difficult to pinpoint the source of infection.
Boar’s Head and Recalled Products
While the investigation is ongoing, a significant development occurred in September 2024 when Boar’s Head announced it would cease production of liverwurst, a deli product found to be contaminated with Listeria. The company also indefinitely closed its Jarratt, Virginia plant where the contaminated liverwurst was produced. Earlier, in July and August 2024, Boar’s Head recalled a number of liverwurst, ham, bacon, and salami products sold at deli counters due to potential contamination. The USDA-FSIS provides a comprehensive list of recalled products on its website.
It’s crucial to note that the CDC’s investigation initially indicated that illnesses were linked to meats sliced at deli counters, but did not immediately pinpoint pre-packaged deli meats as a source. However, the ongoing nature of the outbreak and the recalls highlight the risks associated with deli-sliced meats in general.
Why Deli Meats Are Vulnerable
Deli meats present a unique challenge for food safety. Listeria is a hardy bacterium that can survive and even grow at refrigerated temperatures. It can persist on surfaces, including meat slicers, and contaminate foods even after proper storage. The slicing process itself can contribute to cross-contamination if equipment isn’t thoroughly cleaned and sanitized between different types of meat.
Who is Most at Risk?
While anyone can contract listeriosis, certain populations are at higher risk of severe illness. These include:
- Pregnant people: Listeriosis can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn.
- Individuals 65 years or older: Older adults are more susceptible to severe illness due to weakened immune systems.
- People with weakened immune systems: Individuals with conditions like cancer, HIV/AIDS, or those taking immunosuppressant medications are at increased risk.
What You Can Do to Protect Yourself
The CDC recommends several steps to minimize your risk of contracting listeriosis:
- Avoid recalled products: Do not consume any recalled deli meats. Check the USDA-FSIS website for the latest recall information.
- Heat thoroughly: If you are in a high-risk group, avoid eating meats sliced at deli counters unless they are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) just before serving.
- Clean and sanitize: Thoroughly clean your refrigerator, containers, and surfaces that may have come into contact with deli meats.
- Seek medical attention: If you experience symptoms of listeriosis after consuming deli meats, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
The Public Health Response and Ongoing Surveillance
The CDC and USDA-FSIS are continuing to investigate the outbreak, using epidemiologic, laboratory, and traceback data to identify the source of contamination and prevent further illnesses. This includes analyzing samples from sick individuals, reviewing food production and handling practices, and conducting environmental testing at processing facilities. Detailed information about the investigation is available on the CDC’s website.
Public health officials emphasize the importance of reporting suspected cases of listeriosis to facilitate timely investigation and control measures. The CDC also maintains ongoing surveillance for Listeria infections to detect outbreaks early and implement appropriate interventions.
As the investigation progresses, the CDC may issue additional guidance or recommendations. We see essential to stay informed about the latest updates and follow the advice of public health officials to protect yourself and your family.