What is Listeria contamination?

Listeriosis is a serious infection usually caused by eating food contaminated with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. An estimated 1,600 people get listeriosis each year, and about 260 die.

Is there a listeria outbreak in the United States?

Oct. 27, 2020 — The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued an alert about a multi-state outbreak of listeria infections. The outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes has been reported in three states. All 10 infected people were hospitalized and one death was reported in Florida.

What foods have been linked to Listeria outbreaks?

Outbreaks of Listeria infections in the 1990s were primarily linked to deli meats and hot dogs. Now, Listeria outbreaks are often linked to dairy products and produce. Investigators have traced recent outbreaks to soft cheeses, celery, sprouts, cantaloupe, and ice cream.

What to do if you have Listeria in your system?

Throw away cut melons left at room temperature for more than 4 hours. Don’t let juice from hot dog and lunch meat packages get on other foods, utensils, and food preparation surfaces. Wash hands after handling hot dogs, lunch meats, and deli meats.

What foods are most likely to contain Listeria?

Listeria is a harmful germ that can hide in many foods. Outbreaks of Listeria infections in the 1990s were primarily linked to deli meats and hot dogs.

How to report a problem with Listeria to the FDA?

Call an FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator if you wish to speak directly to a person about your problem. Complete an electronic Voluntary MedWatch form online. Complete a paper Voluntary MedWatch form that can be mailed to FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/fcic for additional consumer and industry assistance. There are a range of symptoms for listeriosis.

What kind of animals are affected by Listeria monocytogenes?

L. monocytogenes can infect many animal species. Signs of disease are mainly seen in ruminants, such as cattle, goats, and sheep. Sheep are particularly sensitive to the bacteria. Listeriosis is one of the most common causes of encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) in adult ruminants.