Amid a fatal listeria outbreak, U.S. health officials advise pregnant people, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems to avoid sliced deli meats unless reheated until steaming. The CDC reported two deaths and 28 hospitalizations across 12 states.
Officials have not issued a recall as the specific contaminated products remain unidentified. Consumers should weigh their risk before eating deli meats. Most reported cases involved deli-sliced turkey, liverwurst, and ham.
Listeria causes fever, muscle aches, and fatigue, and can be severe for at-risk groups. The CDC recommends reheating deli meats to an internal temperature of 165°F to kill any bacteria.
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