Listeria Outbreak Linked to Meats Sliced at Delis

CDC estimates that Listeria is the third leading cause of death from food poisoning in the United States. About 1,600 people get sick from Listeria each year, and about 260 die. Listeria is a bacteria that can be spread through contaminated food items including deli meats and soft cheeses. 

Listeria is especially harmful to pregnant women, people 65 or older, and those with a weakened immune system due to certain medical conditions or treatments. Other people can be infected with Listeria but rarely become seriously ill.

CDC recommends that people at higher risk for listeriosis avoid eating meat sliced at the deli or heat them to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot before eating.

Pregnant women are ten times more likely than other people to get Listeria infection. Pregnant Hispanic women are 24 times more likely than other people to get Listeria infection. Listeria infection during pregnancy can cause miscarriages, stillbirths, and pre-term labor in pregnant women. Serious illness and even death can result from a Listeria infection in newborns.

If you ate food that has been recalled or is associated with this outbreak or have a fever and other symptoms of a Listeria infection, consult with your healthcare provider.

For additional information, including deli items recalled, visit CDC.