Listeria monocytogenes can be deadly for vulnerable groups of people. A recent recall of ready-to-eat chicken contaminated with L. monocytogenes has included almost 9 million pounds of chicken.
Vulnerable groups of people include the very young, older adults, pregnant women, newborns, and those with poor immune systems to fight off disease.
Prevention is the best defense. Here are some tips from the CDC:
- Avoid eating raw animal products, including raw milk products, uncooked or lightly cooked eggs, and raw fish and meat dishes.
- Wash ALL fruits and vegetables before eating. Avoid eating raw sprouts.
- Avoid hot dogs and other deli-style meats unless they are reheated to steaming temperatures. Also avoid deli-prepared salads, such as chicken or seafood salad.
- Keep your refrigerator at 40 degrees F or lower, and your freezer at 0 degrees F or lower.
Source: www.cdc.gov/listeria/index.html
