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Deadly Listeria Outbreak Linked to Deli Products
Hawaii Food and Drug Branch Collects Sample
In January 2024, the Hawaii State Department of Health's Food and Drug Branch collected a sample of aged cotija cheese product made by a local manufacturer.
CDC and FDA Investigation
The CDC and FDA reopened their investigation in January 2024 after new illnesses were reported in December 2023. Whole genome sequencing confirmed that the illnesses were linked to the same strain of Listeria found in the cheese sample.
Outbreak Linked to Dairy Products
A deadly outbreak of Listeria in 11 states has been linked to dozens of dairy products, including popular Super Bowl snacks queso fresco and Cotija. The CDC has advised consumers to avoid all recalled dairy products and to clean and disinfect surfaces that may have come into contact with them.
Protecting Yourself from Listeria
To protect yourself from getting sick from Listeria, the CDC recommends the following steps:
- Avoid eating recalled dairy products.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling food.
- Cook food to the proper temperature.
- Refrigerate perishable foods promptly.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces that may have come into contact with raw meat or poultry.
Pregnant women, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe Listeria infection. If you think you may have symptoms of Listeria, such as fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, seek medical attention immediately.
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