Deadly listeria outbreak linked to deli meats, cheeses sold in 6 states including Massachusetts
A deadly listeria outbreak has been linked to deli meats, hot dogs, and cheeses that were sold in six states including Massachusetts, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced Wednesday.
Information shows the deli meats and cheeses in question have sickened 16 people, claiming the life of one person and leaving 13 others hospitalized, according to the CDC.
Illnesses have been reported in Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Illinois, and California.
In a statement, the CDC said, “The true number of sick people in this outbreak is likely higher than the number reported, and the outbreak may not be limited to the states with known illnesses. This is because some people recover without medical care and are not tested for listeria.”
The CDC noted that it has been hard for investigators to identify a single food as the source of the outbreak because listeria spreads easily between food and the deli environment and can persist for a long time in deli display cases and on equipment.
People who are pregnant, 65 or older, or have a weakened immune system due to certain medical conditions or treatments are at a higher risk for severe listeria illness.
An investigation into specific products or delis that may be contaminated with the outbreak strain remains ongoing.
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