New Listeria Outbreak In WA, 9 Other States Investigated By CDC

WASHINGTON — Federal officials are investigating the source of a Listeria outbreak that has sickened people in multiple U.S. states, including in Washington.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported the outbreak Wednesday, saying it may not be limited to the states with known illnesses. The true number of sick people is likely higher than the 11 reported so far by health officials in 10 states, according to the CDC.

The CDC said health officials in Michigan reported two illnesses, and their counterparts in Arkansas, California, Colorado, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Dakota and Washington each reported one.

A specific food item has not yet been identified as the source of this outbreak, the CDC said Wednesday.

No deaths have been reported but 10 people have been hospitalized.

Listeriosis is a serious infection usually caused by eating food contaminated with listeria. With a link to a specific food as yet unidentified, the CDC said the illnesses are concerning.

Listeria infections are rare, the agency said, but can result in a serious illness or death.

Listeria is especially harmful to pregnant women, people 65 and older or anyone with a weakened immune system. People who have Listeria symptoms should contact their health care provider right away.

Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and convulsions. Pregnant women: Pregnant women typically experience only fever and other non-specific symptoms, such as chills and headaches.