Health Officials Warn Against Consuming Sliced Deli Meat Due to Listeria Outbreak

Health officials in the United States are currently investigating a fatal outbreak of listeria food poisoning, prompting warnings for certain individuals to avoid eating sliced deli meat. Those who are pregnant, elderly, or have compromised immune systems are particularly at risk and should take precautionary measures.

Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause serious illness, especially in vulnerable populations. Symptoms of listeriosis, the infection caused by listeria, include fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal issues. In severe cases, it can lead to meningitis or septicemia, which can be life-threatening.

As investigations continue, it is crucial for individuals in high-risk groups to be extra vigilant about the foods they consume. This includes avoiding sliced deli meat, which has been identified as a potential source of contamination in this outbreak. By following this advice, individuals can reduce their risk of exposure to listeria and protect their health.

It is always important to stay informed about food safety issues and take appropriate actions to safeguard your well-being. If you believe you may have consumed contaminated food or are experiencing symptoms of listeriosis, seek medical attention promptly.

Stay updated on the latest developments regarding the listeria outbreak and follow the guidance provided by health officials. By staying informed and taking proactive steps to protect yourself, you can minimize your risk of falling ill from foodborne illnesses like listeriosis. Your health and safety should always be a top priority.

As U.S. health officials investigate a fatal outbreak of listeria food poisoning, they’re advising people who are pregnant, elderly or have compromised immune systems to avoid eating sliced deli meat. https://t.co/tv07bVCJne

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As U.S. health officials continue to investigate a recent outbreak of listeria food poisoning, the latest guidance they have issued is for certain groups of people to avoid eating sliced deli meat. This advice is specifically targeted towards pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Let’s delve deeper into why these particular groups are being advised to steer clear of deli meat, and what steps can be taken to minimize the risk of listeria contamination.

### Why are pregnant women being advised to avoid sliced deli meat?

Pregnant women are at a higher risk of listeria infection due to changes in their immune system that make them more susceptible to foodborne illnesses. Listeria can have serious consequences for both the mother and the baby, potentially leading to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infections in newborns. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that pregnant women avoid eating deli meats unless they are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot.

### What about the elderly and individuals with compromised immune systems?

The elderly and individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, or people with HIV/AIDS, are also at a higher risk of severe illness from listeria contamination. These groups may not be able to fight off infections as effectively as healthy individuals, making them more vulnerable to the harmful effects of listeria. It is crucial for these individuals to take extra precautions when it comes to food safety, including avoiding deli meats that may be contaminated with listeria.

### How does listeria contamination occur in deli meat?

Listeria monocytogenes, the bacteria responsible for listeria infections, can be found in soil, water, and animals. It can also survive and grow in cold temperatures, making deli meats a potential source of contamination. The bacteria can be introduced to deli meat during processing, slicing, or packaging, and can multiply if the meat is not stored properly or if it comes into contact with other contaminated surfaces. Consuming contaminated deli meat can lead to listeriosis, a serious infection that can cause fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea.

### What steps can be taken to reduce the risk of listeria contamination?

To minimize the risk of listeria contamination in deli meat, it is important to follow safe food handling practices. This includes storing deli meats in the refrigerator at 40°F or below, using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw and cooked foods, and washing hands and surfaces thoroughly before and after handling deli meats. Additionally, heating deli meats to an internal temperature of 165°F can help kill any bacteria that may be present, reducing the risk of infection.

In light of the recent listeria outbreak, it is crucial for pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems to take extra precautions when it comes to food safety. By avoiding sliced deli meats or ensuring that they are heated to a safe temperature before consumption, these at-risk groups can help protect themselves from the harmful effects of listeria contamination. Remember, when in doubt, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to food safety.

Sources:
– [U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)](https://www.cdc.gov/listeria/)
– [Food and Drug Administration (FDA)](https://www.fda.gov/food/foodsafety/foodborneg illness)
– [World Health Organization (WHO)](https://www.who.int/foodsafety/en/)