Baby dies from listeria outbreak linked to recalled ready-to-eat meat and poultry

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LOS ANGELES - A listeria outbreak tied to certain ready-to-eat meat and poultry products has resulted in 11 reported infections across four states, including the death of an infant in California, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The recalled products, distributed by Yu Shang Food Inc. of Spartanburg, S.C., were sold under refrigeration and labeled as being produced in the United States. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) said over 72,000 pounds of products have been recalled after routine testing revealed the presence of listeria bacteria.

Health officials urge consumers to return or dispose of any affected items and thoroughly clean refrigerators, surfaces, and containers that may have come into contact with the recalled products.

Cases reported across four states

Seven listeria cases were reported in California, two in Illinois, and one each in New York and New Jersey. Nine of the infected individuals have been hospitalized. No additional details have been provided about the infant who died, including the specific location in California.

Listeria infections can cause severe symptoms, particularly among high-risk groups, including older adults, pregnant women, newborns, and immunocompromised individuals.

Symptoms and risks of listeria infection

Symptoms of listeria infection can appear within two weeks of consuming contaminated food but may occur as early as the same day or as late as 10 weeks later. Signs include headache, muscle aches, fever, confusion, loss of balance, stiff neck, and diarrhea.

Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable, as listeria infections can lead to miscarriages, stillbirths, premature deliveries, or severe infections in newborns.

"In pregnant women, the infection can cause miscarriages, stillbirths, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn," FSIS noted.

What to do if exposed

Health authorities recommend that anyone who has consumed recalled products monitor for symptoms and seek medical attention if needed. Listeria infections are treatable with antibiotics when caught early.

For a complete list of recalled products, visit the FSIS website here.

The source

This report is based on information from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Food Safety and Inspection Service, and previous FOX reporting.