CDC Points Warning Linking Sure Cheeses to Listeria Outbreak in A number of States – CBS Pittsburgh

By jimadmin On Feb 16, 2021

By Andrea Diaz, CNN

(CNN) – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is investigating an outbreak of Listeria in several states linked to fresh and soft cheeses such as Queso Fresco, Queso Blanco, and Queso Panela.

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These cheeses are a likely source of an outbreak that took seven people to the hospital in Connecticut, Maryland, New York and Virginia, according to the CDC, the Food and Drug Administration, and state officials.

“People who are not at greater risk of developing serious illnesses should ensure that the fresh and soft Spanish-style cheeses (such as queso fresco) they eat have labels that read ‘Made with pasteurized milk’,” the said CDC in a press release on Friday.

FOOD OUTBREAK: Listeria outbreak in connection with fresh and soft cheese, Spanish style such as Queso fresco. If you’re pregnant, 65 years of age or older, or have a weakened immune system, don’t eat these cheeses until we’ve identified a particular type / brand. https://t.co/O8WZ64wNB8 pic.twitter.com/Q3BR6qkIC2

– CDC (@CDCgov) February 12, 2021

People at higher risk of severe listerial disease, such as pregnant women or those over 65, should avoid these cheese products, according to the CDC.

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“Don’t eat fresh and soft Hispanic-style cheeses (like Queso Fresco, Queso Blanco, and Queso Panela) until we’ve identified a certain type or brand that is making people sick,” the agency said.

Listeria can cause common food poisoning symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea.

“Pregnant women usually only suffer from fever, fatigue and muscle pain. However, Listeria infection during pregnancy can lead to miscarriages, stillbirths, premature births or life-threatening infections in the newborn, ”the CDC said.

“People who are not pregnant may experience headaches, stiff necks, confusion, loss of balance and convulsions, in addition to a fever and muscle pain,” the CDC said.

“Contact your doctor immediately if you have symptoms of severe Listeria disease after eating fresh and soft Hispanic cheese.”

More information on this outbreak can be found on the CDC website here.

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