Listeriosis Outbreak in Ohio: Four Deaths and Ongoing Investigations

Strategic Insights -

The outbreak of listeriosis in Ohio has resulted in the deaths of four adults and three fetuses, with 23 reported cases in the state and 72 nationwide. The disease is caused by contaminated meat, primarily hot dogs and deli meat. The Center for Disease Control has pointed to these products as the source of the bacteria. The Columbus Health Department has issued a warning, and recalls have been initiated against Bil Mar Foods and Gordon Food Service.

Key Takeaways:

  • The listeriosis outbreak in Ohio has resulted in four adult deaths and three fetal deaths, with 23 reported cases in the state and 72 nationwide.
  • The disease is caused by contaminated meat, primarily hot dogs and deli meat.
  • The Center for Disease Control has pointed to these products as the source of the bacteria.
  • The Columbus Health Department has issued a warning, and recalls have been initiated against Bil Mar Foods and Gordon Food Service.
  • Listeriosis is particularly dangerous to the elderly, those with weakened immune systems, and fetuses of pregnant women.
  • The disease has occurred in multiple counties in Ohio, including Franklin, Cuyahoga, Hamilton, Lorain, Lucas, Madison, Mahoning, Montgomery, Ross, Tuscarawas, and Wood.
  • A recall has been issued against Bil Mar Foods, a subsidiary of Sara Lee, and Gordon Food Service.

Statistics:

  • 23 cases in Ohio
  • 72 cases nationwide
  • 4 adult deaths in Ohio
  • 3 fetal deaths in Ohio
  • 11 adult deaths nationwide
  • 5 miscarriages or stillbirths nationwide

Sources:

  • Columbus Health Department
  • Center for Disease Control
  • Bil Mar Foods
  • Gordon Food Service
  • News Provided by COMTEX (http://www.comtexnews.com)