Listeria Outbreak Linked to Deli Meat Claims Life in New York #

A recent listeria outbreak associated with recalled deli meat has resulted in one death in New York. The outbreak has affected multiple states, with 59 people hospitalized and 10 fatalities reported so far.

Health officials believe the actual number of cases may be higher due to several factors:

1. Symptoms can take up to 10 weeks to appear
2. Some infected individuals recover without being tested
3. Linking an illness to an outbreak can take weeks

The company responsible for the recalled products has acknowledged the severity of the situation, calling it a “dark moment” in their history. They have decided to discontinue their liverwurst production after an investigation revealed that the production process was the source of the listeria contamination.

In response to the outbreak, the company has taken several measures:

• Closing the Virginia plant that produced the contaminated meat
• Implementing a company-wide food safety program
• Expressing commitment to customer safety and product quality

The plant in Virginia has been non-operational since July when the initial recall was announced and subsequently expanded to include all products made at the facility.

Consumers are advised to check their kitchens for recalled products. Affected items can be identified by the following:

• “EST. 12612” or “P-12612” inside the USDA mark of inspection on labels
• Sell-by dates extending into October 2024

Listeria bacteria, which causes listeriosis, is the third leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the United States. Symptoms of listeria infection may include:

• Fever
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue
• Stiff neck
• Headache
• Confusion
• Seizures

The public is urged to remain vigilant and dispose of any recalled products to prevent further infections.