Listeria Outbreak Reported In Wisconsin

(Wisconsin) State health officials are reporting a listeria outbreak that is linked to meats sliced at delis. Specific products related to the outbreak haven’t been identified yet. Listeria can be more serious for people who are pregnant, aged 65 or older, or have a weakened immune system. These groups should not eat meats sliced at deli counters, unless they have been reheated to 165 degrees Fahrenheit or until steaming hot. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says two people have been killed and 28 others hospitalized, including one case in Wisconsin. The outbreak has impacted people across 12 states. The deaths occurred in Illinois and New Jersey. States hardest hit were New York, which reported seven cases and six cases in Maryland. CDC data showed the ages of the sick people range between 32 and 94 with the median being 75. The U.S. Department of Agriculture-Food Safety and Inspection Service is working to identify the suppliers of the meats sliced at deli counters during the outbreak.  

Picture courtesy of The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website