New reports hinted of possible Listeria contamination as a California-based vendor is recalling fruits delivered to Colorado after they were suspected to be contaminated with the bacteria. The products in question included whole nectarines, peaches, plums and pluots that they packed between June 1 up to July 12, 2014.
Based on the report of denver.cbslocal.com, Wawona Packing Company, which is headquartered in Cutler, California, has recently released a statement declaring that no health complaints connected to the recall of the fruits for possible Listeria contamination have been filed as of this time.
Listeria is a type of bacteria identified as monocytogenes. Ingesting foods that it contaminates can lead to severe infections known as Listeriosis. According to cdc.gov, older people, pregnant women, newborns, adults with weakened immune systems and children have the highest risk of contracting this illness, which can lead to death.
However, people considered not at risk are not completely safe from Listeria contamination. Although rare, they can still come in contact with the bacteria through certain circumstances. To lower risk, cdc.gov suggests practicing safety measures in food preparation, consumption and storage.
People infected by the bacteria need medical attention. Deaths occur usually in 1 out of 5 sufferers. In the event of an outbreak, authorities will conduct an investigation to determine the cause. After identifying the specific foods that are contaminated, they will advise people on the right measures required to ensure the safety of the products/produce they consume.
Listeria is ranked the third top cause of death due to food poisoning. People with high risk must be particularly cautious in choosing, preparing and storing their foods.
If anyone is infected by the bacteria, thus contracting Listeriosis, symptoms are bound to manifest. According to webmd.com, they include fever, muscle pains and at times diarrhea and nausea. Once the infection has spread to the nervous system, sufferers usually experience headaches, confusion, los of balance, stiff neck and sometimes even convulsions.
