The current Listeria outbreak has infected 72 people that has resulted in 13 deaths in 18 states across the country. The source of the Listeria outbreak has been traced back to contaminated whole cantaloupes grown at Jensen Farms in Granada, Colorado.
Once the FDA and Colorado health officials identified the contaminated brand, Jensen Farms voluntarily recalled their Rocky Road cantaloupes.
The bacteria that causes the Listeria infection is routinely found in soil and water that can become contaminated when manure is used as fertilizer. Animals are the most common “Trojan Horse” to transmit the Listeria bacteria to humans.
Most Listeria outbreaks stem from eating contaminated processed meat, soft cheeses, and unpasteurized milk. To lower the risk of becoming infected with the Listeria bacteria the CDC has issued food preparation guidelines.
· Carefully wash raw fruits and vegetables under running tap water prior to eating. · Be sure that raw meats are cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees. · Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling raw meats, fruits and vegetables. · Wash knives, cutting boards, and countertops thoroughly after prepping raw meats, fruits, and vegetables. · Listeria bacteria thrive in cold temperatures; so eat perishable foods, processed meats and poultry as soon as possible. · Store uncooked meats, poultry, processed cold cuts, raw fruits, and vegetables in separate containers.
The symptoms of a person who has been infected with the Listeria bacteria vary, and a healthy person may not be affected at all.
However, people most susceptible to Listerosis; those with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, infants, or the elderly that experience the following symptoms should seek medical attention as soon as possible:
· Headaches · Stiff neck · Confusion · Fever, chills or flulike symptoms · Loss of balance · Muscle aches
If physicians diagnose Listerosis, a blood or spinal fluid test can confirm or eliminate the presence of the Listeria bacterium.
Sources
http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/economy/fda-confirms-listeria-outbreak-is-linked-to-cantaloupe-grown-at-colorado-farm/2011/09/19/gIQArEnYgK_story.html