Two fatalities are connected to listeria food poisoning from meat cut at deli counters.
An epidemic of listeria food poisoning connected to meat cut at grocery store deli counters has killed at least two individuals and sickened more than two dozen others, federal health officials said Friday.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at least 28 individuals have become ill in 12 states, with New York having the highest number, seven. The victims that died were from Illinois and New Jersey. Samples were gathered between May 29 and July 5, and thus far, all of the patients known to be involved in the epidemic have been hospitalized.
Many of the outbreak victims reported consuming meat chopped at grocery store deli counters. According to the CDC, there has been no evidence that prepared deli meats are causing illness. People most typically reported eating deli-sliced turkey, liverwurst, and ham, according to authorities. The CDC does not have enough information to determine which deli meats are the source of the epidemic.
Listeria infections normally induce fever, muscular pains, and fatigue but can also cause stiff necks, disorientation, loss of balance, and convulsions. Symptoms might appear soon or up to ten weeks after consuming contaminated food. The infections are particularly deadly for people over the age of 65, those with compromised immune systems, and pregnant women, who may miscarry. The outbreak affects adults aged 32 to 94, with a median age of 75.
According to authorities, one pregnant woman became ill but continued to carry her pregnancy.
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