Death in Illinois Leads to Food Recall & CDC Listeria Warning

A recent death in Illinois has prompted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to issue a warning about a multistate outbreak of Listeria infections linked to deli meats, leading to a recall of Boar’s Head products.

Public health officials from several states, along with the CDC and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS), are investigating this outbreak. As of July 26, 2024, 34 people in 13 states have fallen ill due to Listeria monocytogenes infections, with two deaths reported—one in Illinois and one in New Jersey.

Epidemiologic and laboratory data have identified deli meats, especially those sliced at deli counters, as the source of the outbreak. The Listeria strain was found in an unopened package of Boar’s Head liverwurst, prompting the recall of this product and other Boar’s Head deli meats. On July 30th, Boar’s Head expanded their July 26th recall to include additional products.

The recalled products include Boar’s Head Strassburger Brand Liverwurst produced between June 11th, 2024, and July 17th, 2024, with sell-by dates ranging from July 25th, 2024, to August 30th, 2024. All Boar’s Head deli meat products, including prepackaged ones with “EST. 12612” or “P-12612” on their labels, are also recalled. So far over 200,000 pounds of deli meat has been recalled.

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Listeria is a bacterium that spreads easily and can grow in refrigerated environments. It is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms typically start within two weeks of eating contaminated food and can include fever, muscle aches, and tiredness.

Quick Tips for Dealing with Listeria:

• Avoid Recalled Products: Dispose of them or return them to the store.
• Reheat Deli Meats: Heat to an internal temperature of 165°F before eating. Listeria can grow on foods kept in the refrigerator but is easily killed by heating to a high enough temperature.
• Clean Thoroughly: Sanitize refrigerators, containers, and surfaces that may have come into contact with deli meats.
• Check Labels: Look for “EST. 12612” or “P-12612” on Boar’s Head products.
• High-Risk Groups: Pregnant women, those aged 65 or older, and individuals with weakened immune systems should avoid eating deli meats or ensure they are heated before consuming.