Listeria outbreak in several US states linked to sliced ​​deli meat leaves two dead and 28 hospitalized

A multi-state listeria outbreak linked to sliced ​​deli meat has claimed two lives, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in an alert Friday. In an investigation report, the agency said the outbreak had led to 28 hospitalizations in 12 states.

CDC warns of Listeria outbreak in several states

The agency found that the majority of those infected with the potentially deadly bacteria reported eating meat sliced ​​at the deli counter. As part of its ongoing investigation, the CDC is gathering the necessary data to “determine the specific products that may be contaminated.”

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The CDC also noted that produce sliced ​​or prepared in deli stores is more susceptible to listeria contamination because the bacteria easily spreads from hands and surfaces to deli equipment and food. The agency explained that listeria cannot be killed by refrigeration, adding that foods should be heated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot before consumption to kill the germs.

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“Listeria is especially dangerous if you are pregnant, 65 years of age or older, or have a weakened immune system due to certain medical conditions or treatments. Other people can become infected with listeria but rarely become seriously ill,” the CDC statement continued. 12 states are affected by the outbreak, with the highest number of cases in New York.

Here are the states and their corresponding case numbers:

1. Minnesota – 1 sick person
2. Wisconsin – 1 sick person
3. Missouri – 2 patients
4. Illinois – 1 sick person
5. Georgia – 2 sick
6. North Carolina – 1 sick person
7. Virginia – 2 sick
8. Maryland – 6 patients
9. Pennsylvania – 1 sick person
10. New York – 7 patients
11. New Jersey – 2 patients
12. Massachusetts – 2 patients