CDC investigating listeria infections linked to cold cuts and cheese

Listeria monocytogenes infections have been reported in Michigan, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania, the CDC announced on Wednesday.

The death was reported in Michigan, according to the CDC.

The Food Inspection and Safety Department of the United States Department of Agriculture and the United States Food and Drug Administration oversee the bacterial strain.

Those who became ill said during interviews that they had eaten different types and brands of products, including meats and cheese purchased and sliced ​​at various deli counters, the CDC said. Listeria specimens from these individuals were collected from 13 November 2016 to 4 March this year.

The strain was also identified in samples taken from sliced ​​meat in a deli and in deli counters in several stores, the CDC said.

Officials did not identify the supplier of deli products.

Listeria is of particular concern to pregnant women as it can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, premature labor or a potentially fatal infection in the newborn. Elderly people and people with weakened immune systems are also at risk for listeria infection.

Symptoms of listeriosis include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion and loss of balance. Patients may also experience diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms and convulsions. It can be treated with antibiotics.

Last month, Henry Avocado Corporation announced that it voluntarily recalled California avocados grown in bulk in six states due to potential contamination by listeria monocytogenes.

Amanda Jackson of CNN contributed to this report.