A nationwide recall has been issued for peaches, plums, and nectarines distributed by HMC Farms. This recall follows a reported outbreak of listeria, a serious infection caused by eating food contaminated with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that the outbreak has resulted in 11 illnesses, including one death and 10 hospitalizations.
The CDC has issued a food safety alert regarding this outbreak, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation. They are currently working to determine if any additional fruits or products containing these fruits are contaminated. The recalled fruits were sold nationwide as recently as last week, posing a significant public health concern.
Listeria can cause severe illness when ingested, particularly in pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. The symptoms of a listeria infection can vary but typically include fever, muscle aches, and sometimes gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or diarrhea. In severe cases, the infection can spread to the nervous system, causing symptoms such as headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or convulsions.
Consumers who have purchased peaches, plums, or nectarines distributed by HMC Farms are advised to avoid consuming them and to discard them immediately. Retailers and wholesalers have also been instructed to remove these products from their shelves and inventories. The CDC advises anyone who has consumed these fruits and is experiencing symptoms of listeria infection to seek medical attention promptly.
This recall highlights the ongoing challenges in food safety and the importance of vigilant monitoring and rapid response to potential health hazards in the food supply chain.
