Listeria Fast Facts

General Information:Approximately 1,600 cases of listeriosis are reported in the United States every year, with 260 resulting in death, according to the CDC.

Typically, Listeriosis affects older adults, pregnant women, infants, and adults with compromised immune systems.

Pregnant women are approximately 10 times more likely to get listeriosis. Roughly 14 percent of cases of listeriosis occur during pregnancy.

Listeria is named after Dr. Joseph Lister, an English surgeon who introduced sterilization into surgery. The mouthwash Listerine is also named after Dr. Lister.

“Hispanic-style cheeses” – 2013
February 21, 2014-April 18, 2014 –
The CDC reports on an outbreak that occurred between August and November 2013. In total, seven people fall sick in Maryland and one person dies in California

February 23, 2014-March 1, 2014 – Roos Foods of Kenton, Delaware, recalls a variety of Amigo, Mexicana and Santa Rosa De Lima cheeses.

March 11, 2014 – The FDA suspends the food facility registration of Roos Foods.

Caramel Apples – 2014
December 19, 2014 –
The CDC announces it is investigating an outbreak of listeriosis linked to caramel apples. As of January 10, 2015, a total of 32 people in 11 states have been infected and seven deaths have been reported, according to the CDC.

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