Since the month of August, eleven cases of Listeria have been reported across three states, most of these in Colorado. Two people became ill in Texas and one in Nebraska after consuming cantaloupe, which seems the likely source of the contamination. One victim in El Paso county in Colorado has died.
It is believed that the Listeria contamination is linked to cantaloupes, although the exact source of the produce has yet to be determined. Dr. Chris Urbina, chief medical officer of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment as advised residents of the state to be “prudent”, and that those most at risk for Listeria infection should avoid eating cantaloupe. This includes he elderly, those with weakened immune systems and pregnant women. The reason that cantaloupe is believed to be the source is that all nine victims had consumed the food prior to becoming ill.
Alicia Cronquist, epidemiologist for the Colorado state health department stated that most of the victims were older females with an average age of 84, although some were as young as 30. A multistate investigation is being coordinated by the CDC, the FDA and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS).
Determining the source of Listeria contamination can be difficult, as the “incubation” period ranges from 11 to 70 days, which means by the time an individual develops symptoms it is difficult to remember what they have eaten during prior days and weeks.
Symptoms of listeriosis include fever, muscle aches, diarrhea, stiff neck, headache, loss of balance, confusion and occasionally seizures. Complications can be life-threatening, so it is advised that those experiencing the symptoms seek medical attention at once.
If you or a loved on have been infected with Listeria, contact the New York food poisoning attorneys at Brown Chiari immediately. We can help you understand your legal rights and determine who may be responsible for compensation of costs associated with your illness/injuries. Brown Chiari – Personal Injury Attorneys Buffalo NY
