United States
CDC, and the FDA are investigating a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections linked to packaged salads produced by Dole. As of December 17, 2021, 16 people infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria monocytogenes have been reported from 13 states (ID, IA, MD, MI, MN, NV, NC, OH, OR, PA, TX, UT, WI).
The investigation is ongoing. 12 people have been hospitalized and 2 deaths were reported. Illnesses started on dates ranging from August 16, 2014, to October 17, 2021.
CDC investigated this outbreak in 2019 and 2020 but was unable to gather enough data to identify the source in the past. CDC reopened the investigation in November 2021 when four new illnesses were reported since the end of August 2021. On December 22, 2021, Dole recalled all Dole-branded and private label packaged salads processed at the two facilities that produced the contaminated packaged salads.
The affected products are packaged salads produced by Dole, Sold under multiple brands: Ahold, Dole, Kroger, Lidl, Little Salad Bar, Marketside, Naturally, Better, Nature’s Promise and Simply Nature. Products include mixed greens, garden salads, Caesar kits, and many other types of salads in bags or clamshells “Best if used by” dates from 11/30/21 through 01/08/22. Product lot code begins with the letter “N” or “Y” in the upper right-hand corner of the package.
Do not eat, sell, or serve any recalled products. Investigators are working to determine if additional products may be contaminated.
In case you are experiencing listeria monocytogenes symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, it is important to report it. It can help to detect & resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and it enables better surveillance.
To read the CDC announcement:
www.cdc.gov
Source: CDC