Minnesota Included In Mysterious Listeria Outbreak

LISTERIA OUTBREAK LEADS TO 2 DEATHS

Minnesota is one of twelve states named in a recent listeria outbreak, which has been linked to deli meats. 28 people in 12 states have become sick with listeria after eating sliced meats at deli counters in various states.

The Outbreak has affected people from the following states:

New York
Maryland
Georgia
Missouri
Virginia
Massachusetts
New Jersey
North Carolina
Minnesota
Wisconsin
Illinois
Pennsylvania

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THE LISTERIA MYSTERY

The Listeria breakout is somewhat of a mystery at this time. There is currently no recall of any product tied to the outbreak. Health officials have not yet been able to determine the food source, but the information gathered from those affected seems like they've all eaten prepackaged deli meats.

Listeria is a bacterium that can cause flu-like symptoms, confusion, diarrhea, paralysis and tremors, muscle aches, headaches, loss of balance, nausea, stiff neck, convulsions, Fever and chills, pregnancy complications, fatigue, and the risk of misdiagnosis.

MORE CASES COULD CROSS TO OTHER STATES

The CDC believes more people have been infected with listeria and that more cases could cross to other states. According to the article, two people have died; one in Illinois and one in New Jersey.

All of the 28 people have been hospitalized, and one person was pregnant when they got sick. Symptoms usually start within two weeks after eating food contaminated with listeria.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?

If you think that you may have listeria, you should contact your health professional if you have any symptoms. The CDC suggests that people may want to consider avoiding meats sliced at the deli unless they are heated before eating them. Temperatures of 165 degrees will kill listeria on food that has been refrigerated.