In the past decade, the United States has experienced about 30 listeria outbreaks, resulting in 524 listeriosis cases and 80 deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Most recently affected are Boar’s Head deli meats. The South Carolina Department of Public Health announced Aug. 28 the recalled meat might have contributed to two deaths in the Lowcountry region. The current Listeria outbreak has led to nine deaths and 57 hospitalizations, making this the largest listeriosis outbreak since 2011.
Listeria bacteria can contaminate many foods, leading to an infection called listeriosis when people consume them. This infection is commonly caused by ingesting unpasteurized dairy products and improperly processed meats.
Symptoms of listeria infection can vary depending on the person and worsen if the infection spreads.
“Older adults, immune-compromised individuals, pregnant women and newborns and infants are at the greatest risk for foodborne illness such as listeria,” says Catherine Izzo, Tidelands Health registered dietitian. “With a weakened or not fully developed immune system, a smaller dose of the bacteria can cause illness whereas someone with a strong immune system may not get sick.”
Common symptoms of a listeria infection:
- Fever
- Chills
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
If the infection spreads to the nervous system, additional symptoms may include:
- Headaches
- Stiff neck
- Confusion
- Loss of balance
- Seizures
If you have purchased recalled products:
- Do not eat recalled deli products. Throw them away or contact stores about returns.
- Avoid other deli meats from deli counters unless reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot. Let them cool before eating.
- Clean your refrigerator, containers and surfaces that may have touched sliced deli meats.
Call your health care provider right away if you were affected by the recall and are experiencing fever, muscle aches, fatigue, headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance or seizures.
If you are pregnant, a listeria infection can also lead to serious complications such as miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery or life-threatening infection of the newborn.
“To prevent foodborne illness, you should follow general food safety guidelines including washing hands and cleaning surfaces, preventing cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards and utensils, keeping ready-to-eat food and raw food separate, storing food properly and cooking food to proper temperatures,” says Izzo.