What We Know About the Deadly Listeria Outbreak Linked to Deli Meat

A listeria outbreak has sickened over two dozen and killed at least two, according to a recent report from federal health officials.

In a July 19 report, the CDC explained it opened an investigation into the 28 cases of listeria reported in several states from the Midwest and along the East Coast.

Exposure to the bacteria (Listeria monocytogenes) can cause serious and sometimes fatal illnesses in young children, pregnant patients, or those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of the infection include fever, headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. In extreme cases, miscarriages and stillbirths are possible among those who are pregnant.

According to the data–which the agency collected from May 29 through July 5–all 28 people were hospitalized with the illness, one of whom was pregnant when they first became ill. Many of the patients have recovered since seeking treatment, though two deaths have been reported as a result of the listeria outbreak in two states: one in New Jersey and one in Illinois.

The investigation confirmed that at least one case of listeria has been reported in 12 states. However, the agency believes many more could be affected than what's been documented, as some people recover from the illness quickly and without seeking medical treatment or testing.

So far, states that have reported at least one case of illness caused by the food-borne bacteria include Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, Missouri, Wisconsin and Minnesota.

According to Friday's report, the investigation into what caused the deadly listeria outbreak is still ongoing, but several patients have reported eating sliced meat from grocery store deli counters–most commonly deli-sliced turkey, liverwurst, and ham–before becoming ill. The CDC is still collecting information to determine the specific products that may be contaminated and, presumably, issue a formal recall.

As of right now, health officials urge consumers to employ proper food handling and safety practices and advise anyone who thinks they may have symptoms of listeria to contact their healthcare provider.

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