After consuming milkshakes infected with listeria bacteria at a restaurant in Washington, USA, at least three individuals died and three more were hospitalized. According to a press release from the Washington State Department of Health, the epidemic was traced back to ice cream equipment that was not properly cleaned at a Frugals restaurant in Tacoma. According to the statement, “Listeria bacteria found in all milkshake flavors sold at Frugals restaurant at 10727 Pacific Ave. S., Tacoma, WA, are associated with a foodborne listeriosis outbreak linked to six hospitalizations and three deaths.”
Despite the fact that the restaurant ceased operating its ice cream makers on August 8, Listeria can still cause illness up to 70 days later. According to reports, the patients (five in Pierce County and one in Thurston County) were hospitalized between February 27 and July 22. The bacteria found in the milkshakes were the same strain of Listeria that caused the hospitalizations, according to investigations. Anyone who ate at the Tacoma restaurant between May 29 and August 7 and is experiencing Listeria symptoms is recommended to see a doctor as soon as possible.
What is Listeria?
Listeria, or Listeriosis is a dangerous infection that is frequently associated with consuming food infected with the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), roughly 16000 people get listeriosis each year, with 260 dying as a result of the condition. This bacteria is more likely to infect pregnant women and their newborns, people over the age of 65, and people with weakened immune systems. Pregnant women are around ten times more likely to have listeriosis, while pregnant Hispanic women are about twenty-four times more likely. Others may get the condition, but their symptoms may be milder.
Symptoms of Listeria
Those who are not pregnant frequently have a fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. A headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures are all possible. Meanwhile, pregnant women typically have a fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. Listeria is not to be taken lightly because it has been linked to pregnancy loss or premature birth in some circumstances. Antibiotics are typically used to treat people who have an invasive illness. Most people with intestinal diseases recover without the need for antibiotics. The CDC warns that antibiotics should only be used for individuals who are critically ill or are at risk of becoming critically ill. When diarrhea occurs in those who have an intestinal disease, they should drink plenty of water.
