LOWCOUNTRY, S.C. (WCIV) — Two deaths in the Lowcountry may be connected to a nationwide listeria outbreak linked to Boar's Head deli meats. You can get infected by consuming food that's already contaminated with the bacteria.
Bacteria can survive for long periods of time on dishes, containers, etc.
“The bacteria is refrigeration resistant, so meat and other foods can remain contaminated with Listeria and remain viable in the refrigerator, but cooking the food kills the bacteria,” said Dr. Linda Bell, state epidemiologist for the Department of Public Health.
A total of 57 Listeria-related hospitalizations have occurred across the US since early August, health officials said.
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The Centers for Disease Control and the South Carolina Department of Public Health are now urging South Carolinians to protect themselves.
“What we're concerned about here are the recalled products that have been identified as potentially contaminated with Listeria. First of all, information about the recalled products is available on the USDA website for details on recalled products,” Bell added.
Boar's Head deli meats, including liverwurst and Virginia ham, purchased before July 31 are being recalled.
Check for “EST.12612” or “P-12612” on the label and discard the product immediately if found.
“These foods should also be washed thoroughly to eliminate any possible contamination. In particular, people who may have underlying health conditions, such as pregnant women who are immunocompromised, and people over the age of 65 should avoid eating deli meats that have been processed at grocery stores that have meat slicers,” Bell said.
Symptoms of Listeria include body aches, headaches, confusion, and stomach and intestinal health problems.
According to the CDC, these symptoms usually begin one to four weeks after eating the contaminated food, but may start on the same day or up to 70 days later.
