1 MI death from Listeria epidemic linked to cold cuts

GREAT RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) – Public health officials are investigating a Listeria outbreak in several states, including Michigan.

According to the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention, eight cases of Listeria monocytogenes have been reported in four states, including one in Michigan.

No further details on the fatal case have been published.

There is evidence that meats and cheeses sliced ​​at deli counters could be contaminated and make people sick. Health officials have named no shop nor identified deli products that may have spread the bacteria.

The CDC does not advise consumers to stop eating foods prepared in delicatessens. Health officials advise retailers to clean and sanitize deli slicers and places where deli products are stored or served.

Listeria monocytogenes can cause serious and life-threatening infections in young children, frail or elderly people, pregnant women and people with compromised immune systems. It can also cause miscarriages or stillbirths.

Healthy people can normally suffer from high fever, severe headaches, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea.