SC deaths linked to nationwide Listeria outbreak, DPH reports

COLUMBIA, SC (WRDW/WAGT) – After two deaths in South Carolina, residents were urged to avoid recalled Boar's Head deli meats following a statewide listeria outbreak, the Department of Health said.

Since July, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been investigating a Listeria outbreak that, as of August 8, has resulted in 43 hospitalizations and three deaths in 13 states.

The deaths in South Carolina will be added to the CDC map later this week, the DPH said.

“Unfortunately, an outbreak of Listeria has reached our state and may be the cause of two deaths here,” said Dr. Linda Bell, state epidemiologist“We want to make sure that South Carolina residents are aware of this outbreak and that everyone is taking the necessary steps to avoid consuming products that could be a source of infection.”

Epidemiological, laboratory and traceability data show that some meats sliced ​​at deli stores, including Boar's Head brand liverwurst, are contaminated with listeria and are making people sick, according to the CDC. Boar's Head Ready-to-Eat Liverwurst and other deli products from the same processing plant have been recalled.

DPH and CDC recommend the following steps to avoid Listeria:

• Do not eat recalled meat. Throw it away or contact stores about returning it.
• Check your refrigerator for recalled cold cuts and throw them away or return them to the store. Listeria can grow on foods stored in the refrigerator.
• Clean your refrigerator, containers, and surfaces that may have come into contact with recalled meat.

People at higher risk should take additional measures. Listeria is especially harmful to pregnant people, people age 65 and older, or people with weakened immune systems. The CDC always recommends that people at higher risk for listeriosis avoid eating meat sliced ​​in the deli section or heat it to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot before eating.

Delis that receive recalled meat should thoroughly clean and disinfect all surfaces located in the food and non-food areas and discard all open meats and cheeses in the deli department. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service also advises companies to use best practices to control Listeria contamination in deli departments.

For current information on the Listeria outbreak, visit the CDC website.

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