The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that an infant in California succumbed to an outbreak of listeria that has affected at least eleven individuals across four states from October 2021 to July 2024. The mother of the infant, who was pregnant, also contracted listeria, and while the infant had a twin, testing did not find listeria in that child.
US Listeria Outbreak Claims Infant Life, Sparks Massive Meat Recall
US Listeria Outbreak Claims Infant Life, Sparks Massive Meat Recall
A tragic listeria outbreak in California has resulted in an infant's death and has led to a significant recall of ready-to-eat meat products across multiple states.
In response to the outbreak, on October 21, Yu Shang Food Inc., based in South Carolina, recalled over 72,000 pounds of its ready-to-eat meat products after they tested positive for the harmful bacteria. Reports indicate a significant number of infections, with seven cases identified in California, two in Illinois, and one each in New York and New Jersey. The CDC warns that the actual number of cases is likely much higher due to underreporting, as many individuals may recover without medical attention and recent cases may not yet be included in the data.
Listeria can contaminate various food products and leads to listeriosis, a severe infection particularly dangerous for older adults, immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, and newborns. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, confusion, and gastrointestinal issues. According to the CDC, listeria infections result in roughly 1,600 illnesses and about 200 deaths each year in the United States, making it the third-leading cause of death attributed to foodborne illnesses. The public is advised to stay alert about food safety measures, especially concerning products that may be affected by listeria contamination.
Listeria can contaminate various food products and leads to listeriosis, a severe infection particularly dangerous for older adults, immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, and newborns. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, confusion, and gastrointestinal issues. According to the CDC, listeria infections result in roughly 1,600 illnesses and about 200 deaths each year in the United States, making it the third-leading cause of death attributed to foodborne illnesses. The public is advised to stay alert about food safety measures, especially concerning products that may be affected by listeria contamination.
