The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced on Wednesday that six additional deaths have been linked to a multi-state listeria outbreak traced back to Boar’s Head deli meat. This brings the total death toll to nine, with at least 57 individuals hospitalized across 18 states, marking it as the largest listeriosis outbreak since 2011.
On July 25, Boar’s Head initiated a recall of its Strassburger Brand Liverwurst due to the discovery of the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes in the product, which was produced at the company’s Jarratt, Virginia facility. Shortly thereafter, the recall was expanded to include 7 million pounds of various meat products manufactured at that location.
In an update provided on August 15, Boar’s Head emphasized their commitment to food safety and expressed deep sympathy for the affected families, acknowledging the profound impact of the recall.
The fatalities have been reported in several states, including Florida, Tennessee, New Mexico, South Carolina, Illinois, New Jersey, and Virginia. The age of those affected ranges from 32 to 94 years, with a median age of 77.
According to the CDC, listeria was found in meats sliced at delis, including the implicated liverwurst. The bacteria can easily spread through deli equipment, surfaces, and food items, and refrigeration is not effective in eliminating it.
Symptoms of listeria infection can include fever, chills, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. If the infection progresses to the nervous system, it may cause severe symptoms such as a stiff neck, headache, and balance issues. Listeria poses a significant health risk to individuals with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, and the elderly.