At least nine people have died from listeria infections linked to Boar’s Head deli meats, according to federal health officials. The outbreak, which began in late May and has continued into August, is the largest listeria outbreak in the United States since 2011.
Details of the Outbreak
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the outbreak has affected at least 57 people who have been hospitalized. The deceased include two individuals from South Carolina, one each from Florida, New Mexico, Tennessee, and New York, with three additional deaths previously confirmed in Illinois, New Jersey, and Virginia.
Listeria infections are caused by bacteria that can survive refrigeration and may not show symptoms until weeks after consumption. The CDC estimates about 1,600 cases of listeria food poisoning occur annually, with around 260 deaths.
Initial Discovery and Recall
The problem was first identified when a sample of Boar’s Head liverwurst tested positive for listeria in Maryland. Subsequent tests confirmed that the same strain of bacteria was responsible for the infections.
Boar’s Head initially recalled liverwurst and other deli products with sell-by dates from July 25 to August 30. The recall was later expanded to include all products from their Jarratt, Virginia plant, including prepackaged sausages, frankfurters, and bacon.
Consumer Advisory
Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators for recalled products marked with EST. 12612 or P-12612. If found, these items should be discarded immediately, and the refrigerator and surrounding surfaces should be thoroughly cleaned.
Impact on Victims
Among the victims is Gunter “Garshon” Morgenstein, an 88-year-old Holocaust survivor and well-known hair stylist. Morgenstein, who had a history of enjoying Boar’s Head liverwurst, fell ill in early July and died on July 18 from complications related to the outbreak. His family has hired a lawyer, expressing their distress over what they view as a senseless tragedy.
Company Response
Boar’s Head has confirmed that all affected products have been removed from stores. The products were distributed nationwide and to several international locations, including the Cayman Islands, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Panama.
