Listeria outbreak in multiple US states: update

A recent investigation by US federal regulators has revealed the emergence of an outbreak of Listeria infection linked to ready-to-eat meat and poultry products, resulting in the death of one infant and the infection of at least 11 individuals. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have launched an investigation into the nationwide outbreak linked to the aforementioned meat products. Yu Shang Food Inc., Spartanburg, South Carolina, has issued a voluntary recall of approximately 72,240 pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products, citing the potential for contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. Cases associated with this outbreak, including 9 hospitalisations, have been documented in California, Illinois, New York, and New Jersey. The CDC estimates that the actual number of individuals affected is likely to exceed the documented figure, given that some patients recover without the need for medical intervention and thus do not undergo Listeria infection testing. The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has expressed concern that some of the affected products may still be in the possession of consumers, potentially stored in refrigerators or freezers. The agency is therefore advising customers to dispose of or return any recalled products.