### Nationwide Listeria Outbreak Tied to Boar’s Head Deli Meats Takes 10 Lives
A widespread outbreak of *Listeria monocytogenes* associated with Boar’s Head deli meats has resulted in its 10th reported death, as per a recent update from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Originating in late May 2024, this outbreak has led to 59 confirmed cases across 19 states, all necessitating hospitalization. The latest fatality occurred in New York, increasing the total death count to 10.
#### Overview of the Outbreak
The outbreak was first identified when *Listeria* was found in sealed packages of Boar’s Head liverwurst. This led to a significant recall of over 7 million pounds of deli meats in July 2024. The recall primarily impacted products produced at Boar’s Head’s Jarratt, Virginia facility, which has since been closed indefinitely due to serious sanitation and manufacturing violations.
In spite of the recall and facility shutdown, the CDC cautions that the threat of additional infections still exists. Some of the recalled products had sell-by dates extending into October 2024, indicating they may still be in consumers’ homes. Moreover, *Listeria* infections may take up to 10 weeks to show symptoms, extending the risk of new cases.
#### A Concerning Record of Violations
The Jarratt facility, where the tainted liverwurst was manufactured, has a troubling history of sanitation failures. Reports indicate that the plant had received multiple warnings for various concerns like meat residue on walls and equipment, as well as the presence of mold, algae, insects, and even blood on the floor. In 2022, U.S. inspectors labeled the facility an “imminent threat” to public health, yet operations continued until the outbreak led to its closure.
The alarming circumstances at the Jarratt plant have raised serious questions regarding the regulatory oversight that permitted such a facility to keep producing food for public consumption. Boar’s Head has since recognized that the contamination was linked to a “specific production process” exclusive to the Jarratt plant for liverwurst. In a statement issued on September 13, 2024, the company announced it would permanently halt liverwurst production and enhance safety protocols at its other facilities.
#### Largest Listeria Outbreak in More Than a Decade
This outbreak, with 59 confirmed cases, marks the largest *Listeria* outbreak in the United States in over ten years. The last significant outbreak occurred in 2011 when unsanitary conditions at a cantaloupe processing facility resulted in 147 cases across 28 states, ultimately leading to 33 fatalities. Although the current outbreak is smaller, it has significantly impacted especially vulnerable groups, including the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
#### Recommended Actions for Consumers
The CDC continues to urge consumers to exercise caution. If you have purchased any Boar’s Head deli meats that are part of the recall, do not consume them. Instead, dispose of the items or return them to the place of purchase. Additionally, if any of the recalled products are stored in your refrigerator, it’s crucial to clean and sanitize the refrigerator thoroughly, along with any containers or surfaces that may have contacted the contaminated meat.
The CDC also reminds the public that *Listeria* infections can develop up to 10 weeks post-exposure. Symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. In severe cases, the infection can affect the nervous system, resulting in headaches, confusion, and convulsions. If you experience any of these symptoms after consuming Boar’s Head deli meats, seek medical attention immediately.
#### A Cautionary Reminder for Food Safety
The Boar’s Head *Listeria* outbreak is a glaring reminder of the necessity for food safety and the severe consequences of failures in sanitation and regulatory practices. While the worst of this outbreak may be behind us, the long-term impact on public confidence in the brand and the food industry at large remains uncertain.
As the CDC continues to watch the situation, consumers are encouraged to stay informed and take necessary steps to safeguard themselves and their families. The outbreak emphasizes the urgent need for rigorous food safety regulations and the enforcement of those regulations to avert future occurrences.
For additional details on the recall and safety recommendations, visit the CDC’s [Listeria outbreak page](https://www.cdc.gov/listeria/outbreaks/delimeats-7-24.html).
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**Key Points:**
– The *Listeria* outbreak associated with Boar’s Head deli meats has led to 59 confirmed cases and 10 fatalities across 19 states.
– The contamination was traced back to Boar’s Head liverwurst produced at the Jarratt, Virginia plant, which has been shut down due to serious sanitation issues.
