USA – Outbreak of Listeria Infections Linked to Deli-Sliced Meats and Cheeses Final Update

Final Outbreak Information

At A Glance

Photo of deli products.

As of September 26, 2019, this investigation is over.
10 people infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria were reported from 4 states.
- All 10 were hospitalized, and 1 death was reported from Michigan.
Epidemiologic and laboratory evidence indicated that various meats and cheeses sliced at deli counters might have been contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes and made people sick.
In interviews, ill people reported eating different types and brands of meats and cheeses purchased from and sliced at deli counters in different retail locations.
The outbreak strain was identified in samples taken from meat sliced at a deli and from deli counters in multiple stores.
The investigation did not identify a single, common supplier of deli products.
This outbreak is a reminder that deli products, such as sliced meats and cheeses, can have Listeria bacteria. People who are at higher risk for Listeria infection should avoid eating hot dogs, lunch meats, cold cuts, or other deli meats, unless they are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot just before serving.