Two dead in South Carolina from Listeria linked to recalled deli meat

LOWCOUNTRY, S.C. (WCIV) — Two have died in the Lowcountry potentially due to a national Listeria outbreak linked to recalled Boar’s Head deli meat, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Health.

“Unfortunately, an outbreak of Listeria has reached our state, and is potentially the cause of two deaths here,” said Dr. Linda Bell, State Epidemiologist in a prepared statement. “We want to ensure South Carolinians are aware of this outbreak and that everyone takes necessary steps to avoid consuming products that could be the source of infection.”

Data from the DPH shows that some deli sliced meats, including Boar’s Head brand liverwurst, are contaminated with Listeria and are making people sick, according to CDC. Boar’s Ready to eat meat and other deli products from the same processing plant have also been recalled.

READ MORE: “Third person dies in listeria outbreak linked to Boar’s Head deli meats”

Since July, the CDC has been investigating the Listeria outbreak, which has led to 43 hospitalizations and three deaths across 13 states as of Aug. 8.

In order to avoid contracting Listeria, the DPH and CDC recommend throwing away recalled meats and understand that Listeria can grow on foods kept in the refrigerator.

Concerned individuals who might have bought recalled meats are advised to cleantheir refrigerators.

Delis that received recalled meats should thoroughly clean and sanitize all food and non-food surfaces and throw away any open meats and cheeses. The United States Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service also advises businesses to use best practicesfor controllingListeriacontamination in deli areas.