CDC, public health and regulatory officials in several states, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) are investigating a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections linked to deli meats.
CDC reported the following:
- 10 people infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria have been reported from Florida, Massachusetts, and New York.
- All 10 ill people were hospitalized. One death has been reported from Florida.
- Epidemiologic evidence shows that deli meat is a likely source of this outbreak.
- 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 at various locations.
- A specific type of deli meat and common supplier have not yet been identified
CDC cautioned those who are at higher risk for getting sick with Listeria (if you are pregnant, aged 65 years or older, or have a weakened immune system). If you are not in these groups, you are unlikely to get sick from Listeria, CDC added.
Deli meats, also called lunch meat or cold cuts, can have Listeria bacteria.
Avoid eating deli meats, unless heated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot just before serving.
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