The death toll from the listeria outbreak associated with Boar’s Head deli meats has reached three, with an additional fatality reported in Virginia. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also confirmed an increase in total cases to 43, with nine new cases identified since July 31st.
The outbreak, which began in late May, prompted Boar’s Head to recall 7 million pounds of deli meats on July 30th, expanding an earlier recall.
The recalled products, manufactured at the company’s Jarratt, Virginia plant, encompass over 70 items, including liverwurst, ham, beef salami, and bologna. Recent testing by health officials in New York confirmed the presence of the same listeria strain found in a Maryland sample.
Read: Multi-State Listeria Outbreak Linked To Deli Meats
Consumers are strongly advised against consuming the recalled meats and should either discard them or return them to the store for a refund. Due to listeria’s ability to survive and multiply in refrigerators, thorough cleaning and sanitization are crucial to prevent contamination.
The CDC estimates that listeria food poisoning affects 1,600 people annually, resulting in approximately 260 deaths. Common symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue, with potential for confusion and convulsions in some cases.
The elderly, individuals with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable. Symptoms may take weeks to manifest after consuming contaminated food.
Read: Former New York Cheese Producer Pleads Guilty For His Part In Listeria Outbreak: DOJ
Boar’s Head currently faces two lawsuits related to the outbreak, one in Missouri and a class-action suit in New York. The recalled meats were distributed nationwide and to several international locations.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Android Users: Download our free app to stay up-to-date on the latest news.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.