Nationwide Listeria outbreak linked to deli meats

On July 19, 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced a concerning listeria outbreak linked to deli meats, affecting 12 states and resulting in 28 confirmed cases. This outbreak has been particularly severe, with two fatalities reported and numerous hospitalizations. The most affected states include New York, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Missouri, and Illinois.

Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause listeriosis, a serious infection usually contracted by consuming contaminated food. Unlike many other foodborne pathogens, Listeria can grow at refrigeration temperatures, making it a persistent threat in food products stored under cold conditions. Due to its ability to thrive in these environments, this bacterium is particularly concerned with ready-to-eat meats, cheeses, and other deli products.

Listeria contamination can occur at multiple points along the food production and distribution chain. In the case of deli meats, contamination often happens during the slicing and packaging processes. The CDC has highlighted that Listeria can spread easily among deli equipment, surfaces, and hands, making it a challenge to control once it enters a food preparation area. The bacterium’s resilience in refrigerated conditions further exacerbates the issue, allowing it to persist and multiply even in environments that inhibit bacterial growth.

Certain groups are more susceptible to severe illness from listeria infection.

• Pregnant Women and Newborns: Pregnant women are about 10 times more likely than other people to get listeriosis. The infection can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn.
• Older Adults: Adults 65 and older are at increased risk due to a weakened immune system.
• People with Weakened Immune Systems: Individuals with conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and kidney disease and those on immunosuppressive treatments are more susceptible to listeriosis.

One notable case in this outbreak involved a pregnant woman from Minnesota who contracted listeriosis. Despite the severity of her illness, which required hospitalization, she was able to deliver a healthy baby. This outcome highlights the potential for successful intervention and treatment and underscores the critical need for preventive measures and early detection.

Listeriosis symptoms can vary depending on the individual and the part of the body affected. Common symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal distress, such as nausea or diarrhea. In severe cases, the infection can spread to the nervous system, causing headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or convulsions.

Diagnosis of listeriosis is typically confirmed through a bacterial culture of body tissue or fluid, such as blood, spinal fluid, or the placenta. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, especially for at-risk populations.

Healthcare professionals should advise at-risk patients to take the following precautions.

• Avoid High-Risk Foods: Pregnant women, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals should avoid consuming deli meats unless they are heated until steaming hot (165 °F), which effectively kills Listeria bacteria.
• Maintain Hygiene: Regularly clean and disinfect refrigerators, cutting boards, and utensils that come into contact with deli meats and other high-risk foods.
• Monitor Symptoms: Encourage patients to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms consistent with listeriosis, particularly if they fall into a high-risk category.

The CDC and other health organizations are conducting an ongoing investigation to identify the specific sources of contamination and implement measures to prevent further cases. This includes tracing the supply chain of the affected deli meats, testing for contamination in production facilities, and issuing public advisories.

The recent Listeria outbreak underscores the importance of vigilance in food safety, particularly for vulnerable populations. Healthcare providers play a critical role in educating patients about the risks associated with Listeria and the necessary precautions to prevent infection. By staying informed and proactive, the healthcare community can help mitigate the impact of such outbreaks and protect public health.

For more detailed information on listeriosis and the ongoing investigation, healthcare professionals and the public are encouraged to visit the CDC’s official website at cdc.gov/listeria.