Listeria Outbreak Traces to Contaminated Pasta; Death Toll Rises to Six

A nationwide recall of prepared pasta products has been issued after a multistate outbreak of listeria infections left six people dead and 27 others hospitalized, according to federal health officials. The contaminated pasta, which was sold at various grocery store chains across the United States, including Albertsons and Trader Joe’s, is believed to be the source of the outbreak that has affected individuals in 18 states.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have been working together to investigate the outbreak, which was first reported several weeks ago. The agencies have been tracing the source of the contamination and issuing recalls of the affected products.

The recalled pasta products include a range of prepared pasta dishes, such as macaroni and cheese, pasta salads, and other similar products. Consumers are advised to check their refrigerators and freezers for the recalled products and to discard them immediately.

The CDC is urging people to be aware of the symptoms of listeria infection, which can include fever, headache, stiffness, nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, listeria infection can lead to life-threatening complications, such as meningitis and sepsis.

The investigation into the outbreak is ongoing, and health officials are working to identify the specific source of the contamination. In the meantime, consumers are advised to take precautions to prevent foodborne illness, such as handling and storing food safely, and cooking food to the recommended internal temperature.

The recall of the contaminated pasta products is a significant step in preventing further illnesses, and health officials are working to ensure that affected products are removed from store shelves. The CDC and FDA are also working to provide guidance and support to consumers and healthcare providers affected by the outbreak.