Eight people in four different states have been reported sick from listeria with one person, from Michigan, dying. Everyone was between the ages of 40 to 88 and all were hospitalized.

According to the CDC, the listeria has been linked back to sliced deli meats and cheeses.

In interviews, ill people report eating different types and brands of products... purchased from and sliced at deli counters in many different retail locations.

The deli products were collected from several different stores and tested. However, a single supplier has not been identified.

With that said, there is no recall and the CDC isn't telling people to stop eating deli meats but to take precaution. Those who work at deli counters should make sure their areas are always clean and to always wash their hands to avoid cross-contamination.

People who are more likely to get Listeria should avoid eating cold cuts/deli meat such as pregnant woman, people 65 and older, and those with a weak immune system. It is especially dangerous to a fetus or newborn.

The states with the # of ill cases are:

  • Michigan: 2
  • New Jersey: 1
  • New York: 2
  • Pennsylvania: 3

Listeriosis is caused by the bacteria Listeria and is usually the result of eating contaminated food. Symptoms typically appear 1-4 weeks after consumption and depend on the person (pregnant vs. not) and where their body was affected; fever and diarrhea are common. Get more info here.

Prevent a listeria infection by:

  • Washing your hands
  • Storing packaged meat in your fridge for only 3-5 days after opening
  • Avoid getting meat juice on other food, utensils, counters, etc

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