Missouri and Illinois have been added to the list of states affected by Listeria, a harmful bacteria, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC warns that Listeria is especially dangerous for pregnant individuals, those over 65, and those with weakened immune systems. As of now, the specific products that may be contaminated are still being investigated, but any products sold at the deli, especially sliced or prepared meats, may be affected. At least two people have died and more than two dozen have been hospitalized in an outbreak of Listeria food poisoning linked to deli-sliced meats from grocery store counters.
The outbreak has affected at least 28 people in a dozen states, with the largest number of cases in New York. Two deaths have been reported in Illinois and New Jersey. The people affected reported eating deli-sliced turkey, liverwurst, and ham from grocery store delis, although prepackaged deli meats have not been linked to the outbreak. Symptoms of Listeria infection include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue, with more severe symptoms such as confusion, convulsions, and miscarriages in pregnant individuals. The outbreak includes individuals aged 32 to 94, with one pregnant person affected, but the pregnancy was retained.
The CDC recommends that people at higher risk for Listeriosis avoid eating deli meats or heat them to a high temperature before consumption. Refrigeration does not kill Listeria, but heating the food to a high temperature will eliminate any harmful bacteria. The investigation into the source of the outbreak is ongoing, and the CDC continues to collect information to identify contaminated products.
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