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More than 24 people sickened in deadly listeria outbreak in multiple states linked to processed meat, CDC says

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a warning about a Listeria monocytogenes outbreak affecting 12 states. The infections have been linked to meat sliced ​​in delis.

According to the CDC, the outbreak has resulted in 28 hospitalizations and two deaths, one in Illinois and one in New Jersey. New York currently has the highest number of reported infections with seven cases.

The CDC has created a map of the states with reported cases. Pennsylvania has one, New Jersey has two, and Delaware has none.

Listeria spreads easily via delicatessen equipment, surfaces, hands and food. The bacteria can cause serious illness with fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and convulsions.

The CDC advises pregnant people, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems not to eat deli meats unless they have been cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot just before serving. These groups are at higher risk for serious Listeria infections.

Pregnant women are at particularly high risk, as Listeria infection can cause life-threatening complications for the newborn.

Symptoms typically begin one to four weeks after eating contaminated food, but may occur the same day or as late as 70 days after exposure.

Researchers are gathering information to determine the specific products that may be contaminated. Products sold in the deli, especially those sliced ​​or prepared in the deli, may be contaminated with Listeria.

Chilling does not kill Listeria, but reheating the meat to a high temperature before consumption will kill any bacteria that may be on the meat.

For more information about cases in a specific state, please contact that state’s health department.