Listeria Outbreak Tied To Meat Sliced At Deli Counters. What’s Known So Far

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is investigating a multi-state listeria outbreak linked to meat sliced at deli counters. 

The CDC published an investigation notice on July 19 revealing that two people have died and at least 28 individuals have been hospitalized in connection with the outbreak. The notice reports that many of those connected to the current outbreak reported consuming meats sliced at deli counters. No recalls have been issued, but the agency is now directing the public, especially those at risk, to avoid meats sliced at a deli counter or to reheat the meat thoroughly before consumption.

Read on for a breakdown of what we know so far.

What is causing the listeria outbreak?

The CDC says that the 18 people interviewed about becoming sick with listeria during the current outbreak reported consuming a “variety of meats” sliced at deli counters at various supermarkets and grocery stores. Deli-sliced turkey, liverwurst and ham were the most commonly reported meats consumed.

The agency says it does not have information connecting the outbreak to prepackaged deli meats.

What are the symptoms of listeria?

The signs and symptoms of listeria infection can vary from person to person.

Signs of listeria in pregnant people

• Fever
• Flu-like symptoms like muscle aches and fatigue

Non-pregnant people

• Fever, muscle aches and lethargy
• Headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, seizures

According to the CDC, listeria symptoms can begin within two weeks of consuming food contaminated with the bacteria. However, symptoms can start as early as the consumption day or as late as 10 weeks after eating the food.

Identifying whether a sick individual is part of an outbreak can take three to four weeks.

The CDC reports that as a result, recent illnesses connected to the listeria outbreak might not yet be known, and the actual number of people sick from the outbreak is likely higher than reported.

What states have a listeria outbreak?

A map showing where the sick people lived reveals that the impacted states are Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Wisconsin.

What foods are most likely to have listeria?

The CDC considers the following foods to be more at risk for listeria contamination:

• Deli meats and hot dogs
• Soft cheeses, mainly from unpasteurized milk, like queso fresco, brie and camembert
• Unpasteurized dairy products from raw milk
• Smoked fish
• Premade deli salads

Who is considered at risk?

Newborns, pregnant individuals, those aged 65 or older and people with weakened immune systems are considered at risk for listeria, according to the CDC.