A multistate Listeria outbreak linked to ready-to-eat meat and poultry products from Yu Shang Food Inc. has resulted in the deaths of two infants, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports.
The outbreak has affected 19 individuals across eight states, with the majority of cases occurring in people who consumed contaminated products.
The investigation, conducted by CDC officials and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS), traced the source of the infections to Yu Shang Food Inc.’s products.
The company issued a recall on November 9, 2024, and expanded it on November 21, 2024. The affected items are ready-to-eat meat and poultry dishes commonly sold at Asian markets.
The outbreak has had devastating consequences, particularly for pregnant women and infants. In California, a mother and her twins contracted the infection, leading to the deaths of both infants. Only one of the infants tested positive for the disease, so only one death was counted. In Tennessee, a mother and her infant became ill, with the infant unfortunately succumbing to the infection.
Of the 19 reported cases, 17 required hospitalization. The illnesses occurred between October 24, 2021, and October 28, 2024. Due to the delayed onset of Listeria symptoms, health officials believe the actual number of cases could be higher.
Symptoms and Risk Factors
This Article Includes
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that causes severe illness, especially in pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea, and in severe cases, it can result in complications like meningitis or septicemia.
How It Spreads and Prevention
Listeria spreads through contaminated food, particularly ready-to-eat meats, unpasteurized dairy, and raw vegetables. To reduce the risk, officials recommend thoroughly cooking meat, avoiding unpasteurized products, and practicing good hygiene when handling food.
Consumers should check for recalled products and discard or return them. For a complete list of affected items, visit the CDC website.
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