A recent outbreak of Listeria food poisoning has resulted in three deaths and one pregnancy loss, attributed to a recalled chicken fettuccine Alfredo product sold at Kroger and Walmart, according to federal health officials on Tuesday.
The outbreak, encompassing at least 17 cases across 13 states, reportedly began last July, with at least 16 individuals hospitalized.
FreshRealm, a major food manufacturer operating in California, Georgia, and Indiana, is recalling products produced prior to June 17. The recall affects items available in the refrigerated aisles of retailers.
– A 32.8 oz Market Side Grilled Chicken Alfredo tray featuring fettuccine pasta with creamy Alfredo sauce, white chicken, and shaved Parmesan cheese, with best buy dates before June 27.
– A 12.3 oz tray of Market Side Grilled Chicken Alfredo containing fettuccine pasta with creamy Alfredo sauce, white chicken, broccoli, and shaved Parmesan cheese, with best buy dates before June 26.
– A 12.5 oz Home Chef Heat & Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, comprising pasta, grilled white meat chicken, and Parmesan cheese, with a best before date of June 19.
The specific strain of Listeria linked to the outbreak was detected in a routine sample of chicken fettuccine Alfredo in March, as reported by U.S. Agriculture Office officials. The affected product was disposed of and not distributed.
Authorities have not pinpointed a definite source of contamination. Cases have been tracked through retail records and interviews with affected individuals.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identified Listeria strains associated with illnesses reported between July 24 and May 10. Fatalities occurred in Illinois, Michigan, and Texas, while cases were reported in Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, Nevada, Ohio, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia.
The true number of affected individuals is believed to be higher, and further cases may emerge. Authorities continue to receive reports of illnesses linked to the product, raising concerns that contamination may still be ongoing, said the CDC.
Consumers are advised not to consume any affected products currently in their refrigerators or freezers and to either discard them or return them to the place of purchase.
Listeria infections can lead to severe health issues, particularly in vulnerable populations such as elderly individuals, those with weakened immune systems, pregnant individuals, and newborns. Symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and cramps.
Each year, approximately 1,600 individuals contract Listeria infections, resulting in around 260 deaths, according to the CDC. Federal officials announced in December plans to enhance protocols aimed at reducing Listeria infections following several significant outbreaks, including those linked to Boar’s Head deli meats which led to 10 deaths and over 60 illnesses the previous year.
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Source: apnews.com