Listeria Outbreak – Hispanic-style Fresh and Soft Cheeses

Maryland, United States

A multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections potentially linked to Hispanic-style fresh and soft cheeses is currently being investigated by the FDA, CDC, and state & local health agencies. Hispanic-style fresh and soft cheeses are currently the leading hypotheses for the cause of the Listeria infections.

As of now, there are reports of seven people infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria monocytogenes in Connecticut, Maryland, New York, and Virginia. Six of the seven ill people are Hispanic. Of the four people interviewed, three reported eating at least one type of Hispanic-style fresh and soft cheeses, and all three reported eating queso fresco.

For more information and to read the announcement click here: www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-listeria-monocytogenes-hispanic-style-fresh-and-soft-cheeses-february-2021