Three people have passed away in a listeria food poisoning outbreak connected to Boar’s Head deli meats, as per federal food safety officials. The total number of individuals who have fallen ill has now reached 43. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that the most recent death occurred in Virginia, with the previous two deaths reported in New Jersey and Illinois. Since the initial report on July 31, nine new cases have been identified, bringing the total number of cases to 43.
Boar’s Head made a recall of 7 million pounds of deli meats on July 30, following an expansion of an earlier recall on July 25. This decision was made after a liverwurst sample collected by health officials in Maryland tested positive for listeria. The CDC confirmed that a sample of liverwurst in New York also contained the same strain of listeria. The recall encompasses over 70 products produced at the company’s plant in Jarratt, Virginia, including liverwurst, ham, beef salami, and bologna.
The impacted meat products were distributed to various stores across the country, as well as to several other countries such as the Cayman Islands, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Panama. Consumers are advised not to consume the recalled meats and should either dispose of them or return them to the store for a refund. It is important to note that listeria bacteria can survive and multiply in the refrigerator, so individuals who have purchased the recalled products should thoroughly clean and sanitize their fridge to prevent contamination.
Listeria food poisoning affects approximately 1,600 individuals each year, resulting in around 260 deaths. Common symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue, with more severe cases potentially leading to confusion and convulsions. The infection poses the greatest risk to individuals over 65 years old, those with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women. Symptoms may not manifest until weeks after consuming contaminated food.
In addition to the health risks associated with listeria contamination, Boar’s Head is now facing legal action in the form of two lawsuits – one in Missouri and another as a class action suit in federal court in New York. The company is working to address the outbreak and ensure the safety of consumers. Stay informed and vigilant when it comes to food safety to protect yourself and your loved ones from potential health hazards.
