Health officials are investigating a listeria outbreak that has resulted in at least 10 hospitalizations in California and Nevada. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the ongoing investigation, with support from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Listeria is a bacteria that can cause a serious infection called listeriosis. Symptoms of listeriosis can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. In some cases, the infection can be fatal.
The FDA and CDC are working to identify the source of the outbreak. This involves tracing potentially contaminated food products and interviewing those who have become ill to determine what they ate before getting sick. Consumers are advised to be aware of the symptoms of listeriosis and to contact their healthcare provider if they experience any of these symptoms.
People at higher risk of listeriosis include pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Pregnant women with listeriosis can experience miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn. The CDC recommends that people at higher risk of listeriosis avoid certain foods, such as unpasteurized milk and soft cheeses, unless they are labeled as made with pasteurized milk.
Listeria Outbreak Hospitalizes 10 in California and Nevada
A listeria outbreak has led to the hospitalization of at least ten individuals across California and Nevada. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are currently investigating the source of the outbreak. Officials are working to identify the contaminated food product and prevent further illnesses. Listeria can cause serious infections, especially in pregnant women, newborns, and older adults.
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