What is Listeria outbreak linked to Deli meats in US?

US’ health protection agency CDC has warned about a Listeria outbreak linked to deli meats after 10 people across three states in the country were found to be infected.

The CDC issued a warning about the outbreak, which has sent ten people from Florida, Massachusetts and New York to the hospital and led to the death of one person in Florida.

In interviews with 9 ill people, all reported eating Italian-style meats, such as salami, mortadella, and prosciutto. They reported purchasing prepackaged deli meats and meats sliced at deli counters

Listeriosis

It is a serious infection usually caused by eating food contaminated with the bacterium. It’s most commonly caused by eating improperly processed deli meats and unpasteurized milk products.

According to CDC, If you develop a listeria infection, you might have, Fever, Chills, Muscle aches, Nausea and Diarrhea

Symptoms might begin a few days after you’ve eaten contaminated food, but it can take 30 days or more before the first signs and symptoms of infection begin.

The CDC advises those who are at high risk for infection to avoid eating deli meat, unless is thoroughly heated first. The agency also advises storing the meat in the refrigerator, away from other food and keeping surrounding surfaces clean.