Federal health officials have confirmed that a 10th person has died due to a listeria outbreak linked to Boar's Head deli meats, with the bacteria traced back to a production facility in Jarratt, Virginia.
Since May, 59 people from 19 different states have been hospitalized due to this outbreak, with the most recent death occurring in New York. This brings the total number of fatalities to two in both New York and South Carolina, and one each in Illinois, New Jersey, Virginia, Florida, Tennessee, and New Mexico.
Boar's Head Listeria Outbreak Leads to 10 Deaths
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the listeria outbreak started from contamination found in liverwurst products produced at the Jarratt facility.
Following this discovery, Boar's Head announced its decision to permanently close the Jarratt plant and discontinue liverwurst production. The company's decision came after inspection reports revealed multiple health and safety issues.
These problems included mold, insects, dripping water, and meat and fat residue on walls, floors, and equipment. Some of these problems had reportedly been present for over two years before the contamination was discovered.
Boar's Head, based in Sarasota, Florida, publicly acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and expressed deep regret for the harm caused by the outbreak. The company described the listeria incident as one of the most challenging periods in its history and committed to taking significant actions to improve safety practices across all its operations.
The company is also facing multiple lawsuits from families affected by the outbreak, including those who lost loved ones or experienced severe illness.
The Jarratt facility has been closed since late July when the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) suspended inspections.
Boar's Head also recalled over 7 million pounds of deli meats due to concerns about potential contamination, according to AP News. Initially, the recall focused on liverwurst, but it was later expanded to include other products made at the same facility.
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Health Officials Warn of Potential New Listeria Cases
Health officials remain concerned that more cases of listeria could emerge, as the bacteria can have a long incubation period, with symptoms appearing up to 10 weeks after consuming contaminated food. The CDC has urged consumers to check their refrigerators for Boar's Head products that may be part of the recall.
Products from the Jarratt facility can be identified by the USDA inspection mark labeled "EST. 12612" or "P-12612." Consumers are also advised to discard any items with sell-by dates extending into October 2024, as they may still pose a contamination risk.
Public health officials are closely monitoring the situation and urging consumers to stay alert. The CDC also advises anyone who has eaten contaminated Boar's Head products and is experiencing symptoms of listeria to seek medical attention immediately.
Symptoms of listeria infection can include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue, and in more severe cases, the infection can cause headaches, confusion, or seizures. Pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at the highest risk of developing serious illness from listeria.
Related Article: Boar's Head Shuts Down Virginia Plant After Liverwurst Linked to 9 Deaths
