Two cases of listeriosis reported in Virginia

HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - Virginia is one of 12 states involved in an investigation of a listeria outbreak.

The Virginia Department of Health said there were two reported cases of listeriosis, which is an illness that occurs when the listeria bacteria enter the blood or other body site.

Listeria bacteria are commonly found in the environment, like in soil and water, MaryBeth DeMarco, Foodborne Disease Epidemiologist for VDH, said.

”People usually become infected after consuming food that has been contaminated with listeria like raw milk, soft cheeses, unwashed raw vegetables and fruits and ready-to-eat meat such as deli meat,” DeMarco said.

DeMarco said listeria spreads easily around deli equipment, surfaces, hands and food. While refrigeration will not kill listeria, cooking food at a high enough temperature can kill the bacteria.

Listeriosis is especially harmful to people who are pregnant, over the age of 65 and individuals with weakened immune systems. Listeriosis can cause premature birth or even the loss of a pregnancy.

”For people who are not pregnant, [they] usually have fever, muscle aches [and] tiredness,” DeMarco said. “They may also have headache, stiff neck confusion, loss of balance or seizures.”

The Center for Disease Control recommends that people at a higher risk of contracting listeria either avoid eat meat sliced at the deli or heat it to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit or until steaming hot before eating.

DeMarco said listeriosis is a less common disease and over the last five years, Virginia has averaged 26 cases per year.

Copyright 2024 WHSV. All rights reserved.