Listeria food poisoning outbreak in US; symptoms to watch out for, foods to avoid

A listeria outbreak linked to sliced deli meat across 12 states of USA has left 2 dead and 28 hospitalized, said Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in a news release on Friday. Listeria infection can cause listeriosis, a foodborne bacterial illness that can affect pregnant women, people above 65 years of age and those with weak immune system.The bacteria can survive refrigeration and can thrive in read-to-eat foods or unpasteurized dairy products.
The CDC warned people who are at higher risk of getting sick from listeria to avoid eating meats sliced at deli counters unless they heat those meats to 165 degrees, or until they are steaming hot. Deli is a store that sells ready-to-eat food products such as cooked meats and prepared salads.
Listeria can be deadly for pregnant women and can cause a severe illness when the bacteria spreads to other parts of the body apart from gut.

Listeria food poisoning, also known as listeriosis, is an illness caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. This bacterium is found in soil, water, and some animals. It can contaminate food and survive and grow in cold temperatures, such as those found in refrigerators.
"Listeria infection (listeriosis) manifests with symptoms like fever, muscle aches, nausea, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues. In severe cases, it can lead to meningitis or septicemia, posing heightened risks to pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems," says Dr B S Ravindra, Director, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road.
Listeria monocytogenes is commonly present in soil and water, contaminating food via these sources or through infected animals. Unlike most bacteria, Listeria can thrive in cold environments such as refrigerators, increasing the risk of contamination in refrigerated foods.


Dr Ravindra suggests to steer clear of unpasteurized dairy products, raw or undercooked meat, raw or smoked seafood, and certain ready-to-eat foods that may harbor Listeria.
"Ensure meats are cooked thoroughly, practice proper washing of raw vegetables and fruits, and maintain strict separation between raw and cooked foods to minimize cross-contamination," says the expert.

Deli meats encompass sliced meats typically available at delicatessens or pre-packaged in supermarkets.
Deli meats have been linked to Listeria outbreaks due to potential contamination during processing or storage. Listeria can survive and propagate in cold settings like deli meat slicers or refrigerated environments.
In order to make them safe for consumption, deli meats should be heated until steaming hot prior to consumption, effectively eliminating listeria bacteria.
Alternatively, opt for fresh, unopened packages and consume promptly to minimize risks associated with listeria contamination.