UKHSA investigating deadly Listeria outbreak

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is verifying reports of a Listeria outbreak potentially linked to contaminated chocolate desserts served in hospitals. Three people have reportedly died after consuming the desserts in NHS structures. The UKHSA told The Liverpool Echo that only one of the reported deaths is attributable to Listeria. Although the other victims had the disease, it was not the cause of death. Dr Gauri Godbole, Deputy Director for Gastrointestinal Infections, Food Safety and One Health at UKHSA, said they are investigating several Listeria cases. Laboratory testing has identified a potential link to a particular type of dessert served in NHS Trusts. Therefore, the agency advised the NHS to stop serving it to patients.
Dr Godbole reminded that most people affected by listeriosis have no symptoms or experience mild diarrhoea for a few days. However, the illness represents a serious health risk for immunocompromised people and the elderly, who can end up developing meningitis or life-threatening sepsis. In a statement, the NHS said that people who have eaten contaminated food with Listeria should not do anything unless developing symptoms of the infection. These include fever, aches and pains, chills, and diarrhoea. Pregnant women, who are a high-risk group for the disease, may also have stomach pain or notice their babies moving less than usual. Listeriosis can often result in miscarriage or stillbirth.