10th Death Reported in Boar’s Head Deli Meat Listeria Outbreak
Multiple Deaths and Illnesses Linked to Contaminated Products
A 10th person has died in the listeria outbreak that shuttered a Boar’s Head deli meat plant, federal health officials said
Wednesday.
Outbreak Details
At least 59 people in 19 states have been sickened by the bacteria first detected in liverwurst made at the Jarratt, Virginia, plant. Illnesses were reported between late May and late August, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported. All of those who fell ill were hospitalized.
Fatalities
The latest fatality was reported in New York, bringing the total deaths to two each in New York and South Carolina and one each in Illinois, New Jersey, Virginia, Florida, Tennessee, and New Mexico.
Company Response
The Sarasota, Florida-based company announced on September 13 that it was closing the Jarratt plant and discontinuing production of liverwurst. The moves came after inspection reports revealed problems including mold, insects, dripping water, and meat and fat residue on walls, floors, and equipment dating back at least two years.
Lawsuits and Investigations
Boar’s Head faces multiple lawsuits related to the deaths and illnesses. The plant hasn’t operated since late July, when officials with the U.S. Agriculture Department suspended inspections and the firm recalled more than 7 million pounds of deli meats because of potential contamination.
Acknowledgement and Response
Boar’s Head officials have said they “regret and deeply apologize” for contamination in their products.
About Listeria
Listeria infections are caused by a hardy type of bacteria that can survive and even thrive during refrigeration. An estimated 1,600 people get listeria food poisoning each year and about 260 die, according to the CDC. Infections can be hard to pinpoint because symptoms may occur up to 10 weeks after eating contaminated food.
Prevention and Treatment
You should seek medical care and tell the doctor about eating possibly contaminated food if you have a fever and other symptoms of possible listeriosis.
Conclusion
The Boar’s Head deli meat listeria outbreak has resulted in the deaths of 10 people and has led to a significant recall of contaminated products. The company has apologized for the contamination and is facing multiple lawsuits related to the outbreak.
FAQs
* What is listeria?
+ Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause food poisoning.
* How many people have died in the Boar’s Head listeria outbreak?
+ 10 people have died in the outbreak.
* How many states have been affected by the outbreak?
+ 19 states have been affected by the outbreak.
* What products were recalled due to the outbreak?
+ Over 7 million pounds of deli meats were recalled due to the outbreak.
* What symptoms should I look out for if I think I have listeriosis?
+ Symptoms of listeriosis may include fever, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions.
