United States’ Federal health officials link multistate listeria outbreak to recalled pasta meals; pregnant woman loses fetus, experts urge caution.
At least six people have died and 27 have fallen ill in a multistate listeria outbreak tied to recalled prepared pasta meals sold at major U.S. grocery chains, including Albertsons, Kroger, Sprouts Farmers Market, and Trader Joe’s. Health officials also reported that a pregnant woman lost her fetus after contracting the infection.
Listeria monocytogenes, the bacteria responsible for listeriosis, can grow even at refrigerator temperatures, making ready-to-eat and refrigerated foods particularly vulnerable to contamination. “It most often contaminates deli meats, soft cheeses, smoked fish, unpasteurized dairy, and prepared meals,” said Dr. Leana Wen, CNN wellness expert and emergency physician at George Washington University.
For most healthy adults, listeriosis causes mild flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. However, it can be severe for pregnant people, newborns, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems, potentially causing bloodstream infections, meningitis, or pregnancy complications such as preterm labor, miscarriage, or stillbirth. The CDC notes listeria is the third leading cause of death from foodborne infections in the U.S., claiming around 172 lives annually.
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Symptoms often appear as mild flu-like illness but can escalate to severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, seizures, and organ failure in serious cases. Diagnosis is made through laboratory testing of blood, spinal fluid, or other body fluids, and severe infections require hospitalization and antibiotics. Early detection is key to improving outcomes.
Authorities are urging consumers to immediately dispose of any recalled pasta meals, even if they appear safe. Surfaces, shelves, and utensils that may have come into contact with contaminated products should be washed and sanitized. Those experiencing symptoms after consumption are advised to contact a healthcare provider promptly.
As the holiday season approaches, Dr. Wen emphasized food safety at home, noting that most foodborne illnesses arise from improper handling or cross-contamination. Key preventive steps include thorough handwashing, cooking meats to recommended internal temperatures, avoiding unpasteurized dairy, and keeping raw and cooked foods separate. Perishable foods should be refrigerated promptly, and leftovers stored in shallow containers to cool quickly.
Consumers are also advised to follow local and national health advisories and check for recalls to prevent exposure. Vigilance at home and awareness of contaminated products remain the most effective defenses against listeriosis and other foodborne pathogens.
Africa Daily News, New York
