Listeria Outbreak: How to Protect Yourself and Loved Ones

By: Lidia Amoretti-Morgado and Howard Estrin, MD, gastroenterology, internal medicine, Jackson Medical Group

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is issuing a warning after at least two deaths in a Listeria outbreak are linked to deli meats. At least 28 people suffering from the bacterial infection have also been hospitalized across the Midwest and East Coast.

Investigators are collecting information to determine the specific products that may be contaminated after many people with the infection reported eating meats that had been sliced at deli counters.

Here’s what you need to know:

Listeria is an infection usually caused by eating food contaminated with bacteria associated with the illness. The CDC estimates that Listeria is the third leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the United States. An estimated 1,600 people get Listeria each year. While most cases are mild, about 260 deaths are associated with the infection annually.

Deli products, especially those sliced or prepared at the deli, can be contaminated. Listeria spreads easily among deli equipment, surfaces, hands, and food. Refrigeration doesn’t kill the bacteria, but reheating to a high enough temperature before eating will kill any germs that may be on these meats.

Who’s at risk?

Anyone can get sick with this infection, but these three groups are at a higher risk of getting seriously ill.

• Pregnant women
• Adults 65 or older
• People with weakened immune systems

Symptoms:

Listeria can make you sick to your stomach, but is usually mild. Symptoms usually start within 24 hours after eating contaminated food, and typically last one to three days. Common symptoms include diarrhea and vomiting.

When the infection spreads beyond the stomach, the case can get complicated and potentially dangerous. Other symptoms include:

• Fever
• Flu-like symptoms, such as muscle aches and weakness
• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Confusion
• Loss of balance
• Seizures

What people at higher risk should do:

• Don’t eat meats sliced at a deli counter, unless they’re reheated to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit or until steaming hot.
• Clean your refrigerator, containers, and surfaces that may have touched sliced deli meats.
• Call your doctor right away if you have any symptoms

This latest outbreak is the second to hit the U.S. this summer. In June, a Maryland-based food manufacturer was forced to recall multiple brands of ice cream products sold nationwide after the Food and Drug Administration reported they may have been contaminated with Listeria. If you are experiencing some of the symptoms, please go to your nearest urgent care center.