Listeria Outbreak In US Due To Frozen Shakes, Report On Death Toll And Hospitalisation

A severe listeria outbreak linked to frozen shakes has resulted in 12 deaths and 38 confirmed cases across 21 states in the US. The affected shakes were not available in retail stores but were instead distributed to hospitals and long-term care facilities under the brands Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial.

Health officials have traced the outbreak to a Prairie Farms facility in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where the shakes were produced. Following this discovery, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) immediately intervened, urging healthcare facilities to cease serving these shakes.

Tracing the Source: How the Outbreak Unfolded

The contaminated shakes, packaged in four-ounce cartons and available in chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors, were primarily served to vulnerable individuals in healthcare settings. The FDA’s testing of samples confirmed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium known for causing severe foodborne illness.

Upon confirmation of contamination, Lyons Magnus and Sysco initiated a recall and halted distribution from the Prairie Farms facility. Expressing concern over the outbreak, Sysco stated, "Food safety is our top priority, and we deeply regret the impact this has had on affected families." The incident follows another deadly listeria outbreak last year, linked to deli meats from Boar’s Head, which resulted in 59 infections and 10 fatalities.

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What Is Listeria? Understanding the Bacteria Behind the Outbreak

Listeriosis is caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes, which is commonly found in soil, groundwater, decaying vegetation, and animal feces. The infection primarily spreads through the consumption of contaminated food.

One of the most alarming characteristics of L. monocytogenes is its ability to survive and multiply even in refrigerated and frozen conditions. Unlike other foodborne bacteria that typically die off in cold temperatures, listeria can thrive in environments like freezers and refrigerators, making it particularly dangerous when undetected.

Who Is Most at Risk?

While listeria infections can affect anyone, certain groups are more vulnerable, including:

• Older adults
• Pregnant women (who face risks of miscarriage or stillbirth)
• Newborns
• People with weakened immune systems (such as cancer patients, transplant recipients, and individuals with chronic illnesses)

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Common symptoms of listeriosis include:

• Fever and chills
• Muscle aches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Severe headaches
• Confusion and balance issues

In severe cases, the infection can progress to meningitis or septicemia, which can be life-threatening.

How to Prevent Listeria Infection

To minimise the risk of listeriosis, health experts recommend the following precautions:

• Avoid unpasteurised dairy products: Listeria can thrive in raw milk and soft cheeses like feta, brie, and queso fresco.
• Heat deli meats and leftovers thoroughly: Reheating food to at least 165°F (74°C) can kill the bacteria.
• Store food safely: Regularly clean refrigerators and discard expired products.
• Wash produce thoroughly: Even pre-packaged salads and fruits should be rinsed well.

Following safe food handling and storage practices can significantly reduce the risk of infection.

Bottomline

As US health authorities continue investigating the listeria outbreak, they urge healthcare providers and caregivers to remain vigilant and remove all recalled products immediately. Given the high mortality rate in this outbreak, strict monitoring and preventive measures are critical in preventing further infections.

Consumers should stay informed about FDA updates and practice safe food habits to protect themselves and their loved ones from potential contamination.