Listeria outbreak: Has the illness been reported in Ohio? Why cases could grow

If you’re a fan of deli meat, you might want to hold off on it for a while.

Outbreaks of listeria, which can lead to listeriosis, have been reported in the U.S. Listeriosis is a serious infection caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes found in contaminated food, has been reported after people ate meats sliced at deli counters, according to the CDC. This infection can also be intestinal.

Where has listeria been found, and what do symptoms look like? Let’s take a look. 

Has listeria been found in Ohio? Why cases could grow

According to the CDC, 28 people in 12 states have been infected with listeria. Two people have died from the illness, one in Illinois and another in New Jersey.

As of now, the listeria outbreak has not been reported in Ohio. It’s important to note that other states may also be part of the outbreak may be found in other states, but that might have been left unreported by those affected by the illness.

Map of states reporting listeria illnesses

New York and Maryland reported seven and six cases of listeria-related illnesses as of July 23, according to the CDC. Several other states around the county have confirmed cases.

Are there any specific deli meats that are contaminated with listeria?

Investigators are looking into the foodborne outbreak to determine if there are any specific food products contaminated with listeria bacteria. 

Can listeria be eliminated if meats are heated? 

Yes—the CDC recommends sliced deli meat be heated to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit or until steaming hot before eating. 

Listeria symptoms to look out for 

According to the CDC, it can take three to four weeks to determine if someone is sick from the outbreak. The symptoms vary from person to person—especially if they’re pregnant. If you’re pregnant, it’s important to know that you are at risk if you contract Listeria due to its invasive nature. 

Symptoms include:

• Fever
• Flu-like symptoms, such as muscle aches and fatigue
• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Confusion
• Loss of balance
• Seizures

Because listeria can also be intestinal, those who are pregnant can experience diarrhea and vomiting.

Who is high risk to contract listeriosis from listeria exposure?

Listeria is harmful to those who are pregnant, 65 years or older, or immunocompromised people. The CDC suggests those with a higher risk for listeriosis avoid consumption of sliced deli meat. 

How to protect yourself from listeria 

Listeria illness is usually mild—but if you are at higher risk, the CDC recommends you take precautions to avoid contracting the illness. 

• Avoid eating sliced meat from deli counters, unless it is reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot
• Clean refrigerators and other surfaces that may have touched deli meat
• Seek medical attention if you have symptoms of listeria

If you get sick with listeriosis, the CDC recommends you speak to local and state health officials to help identify where the illness may have come from.