An infant in California has tragically died from a listeria infection linked to a recent outbreak that has now triggered a significant recall of ready-to-eat meat products. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that the baby's pregnant mother also became ill due to the listeria, while the child's twin unfortunately passed away as well, although tests did not detect listeria in that infant.
Between October 2021 and July 2024, the CDC reported a total of eleven listeria infections across four states, including California, Illinois, New York, and New Jersey. Specific details surrounding the infant's death remain unclear, including when it occurred. The outbreak’s scale led to a precautionary recall earlier this month, with Yu Shang Food Inc., a company based in South Carolina, recalling over 72,000 pounds of potentially contaminated products after tests yielded positive results for listeria on October 21.
The CDC noted that seven of the reported ill individuals are from California, while two are from Illinois, with one case each in New York and New Jersey. Health experts cautioned that the actual number of infected individuals is likely much higher, as many cases go unreported due to individuals recovering without seeking medical care or being tested. Additionally, some recent illnesses may not yet have been linked to the outbreak, as it typically takes three to four weeks to confirm connections to such incidents.
Listeria is a type of bacteria that can contaminate food, leading to listeriosis, an infection that mainly impacts vulnerable populations such as older adults, those with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, and newborns. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, headaches, and gastrointestinal issues. According to the CDC, listeria infections account for nearly 1,600 cases and approximately 200 deaths annually in the United States.
