Aug. 29, 2024 – The number of deaths has risen to nine in the listeria outbreak linked to certain Boar’s Head products. This outbreak is now the largest since the one linked to cantaloupe in 2011, which resulted in 33 deaths.
The CDC's latest update on the Boar’s Head outbreak reports that 57 people have been hospitalized since May. People in 18 states have been affected, with the most illnesses reported in New York (17 cases), followed by Maryland (8 cases) and New Jersey (5 cases).
Listeria symptoms can take up to 10 weeks to appear, and common symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and tiredness. More severe symptoms can include headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures.
The CDC is urging people to check their refrigerators for affected products and clean any areas where these products were stored or used, noting that listeria is a hardy germ.
The nationwide recall was first issued in late July for specific Boar's Head liverwurst products sliced at deli counters. The U.S. Department of Agriculture later expanded the recall list to include 71 products produced at a single Boar’s Head facility in Virginia. Laboratory testing confirmed Listeria monocytogenes in an unopened package of liverwurst.
The Boar’s Head website currently lists 57 products under recall, including varieties of ham, bologna, bacon, frankfurters, and sausage.
What is Boar’s Head? Boar’s Head is a well-known brand that has been providing premium deli meats and cheeses since 1905. Their products range from traditional flavors to bold, distinguished tastes, including turkey, ham, beef, chicken, and various cheeses. Boar’s Head prides itself on using the finest ingredients and offering freshly sliced meats and cheeses for uncompromising flavor.
Source:
CDC