health
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CDC Investigates Listeria Outbreak Linked to Deli Meats; Arkansas Residents Urged to Take Precautions
National Desk
April 10, 2026
Why it matters locally: The ongoing CDC investigation into a Listeria outbreak linked to deli meats is directly relevant to Arkansans, particularly those in vulnerable populations. With a population of over 3 million, Arkansas has a significant number of residents who are pregnant, elderly (65+), or immunocompromised—all groups at higher risk of severe Listeria illness. This outbreak could lead to illness and hospitalizations within the state if contaminated deli meats are sold at local grocery stores or delis. Residents should heed the CDC's advice and heat deli meats to an internal temperature of 165°F before consumption, especially if they fall into a high-risk category.
Atlanta, GA—The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is currently investigating a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections. The agency announced it is working with state and local partners to determine the source and scope of the outbreak. The CDC reports that the infections may be linked to consuming meats sliced at deli counters. The agency is using whole genome sequencing to identify cases that are closely related genetically, indicating a common source of infection. Currently, the CDC has not identified a specific deli or meat product responsible for the outbreak. The investigation remains ongoing. The CDC is urging consumers at higher risk of severe Listeria illness to take precautions. Those at higher risk include pregnant women and their newborns, adults aged 65 or older, and people with weakened immune systems. For these individuals, the CDC recommends heating deli meats to an internal temperature of 165°F before consumption to kill potential Listeria bacteria. Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause serious illness, particularly in vulnerable populations. Symptoms of Listeria infection can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions, sometimes preceded by diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms. Invasive listeriosis spreads beyond the gut. Those who believe they have a Listeria infection should contact their healthcare provider. The CDC will continue to provide updates as the investigation progresses.
Atlanta, GA—The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is currently investigating a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections. The agency announced it is working with state and local partners to determine the source and scope of the outbreak. The CDC reports that the infections may be linked to consuming meats sliced at deli counters. The agency is using whole genome sequencing to identify cases that are closely related genetically, indicating a common source of infection. Currently, the CDC has not identified a specific deli or meat product responsible for the outbreak. The investigation remains ongoing. The CDC is urging consumers at higher risk of severe Listeria illness to take precautions. Those at higher risk include pregnant women and their newborns, adults aged 65 or older, and people with weakened immune systems. For these individuals, the CDC recommends heating deli meats to an internal temperature of 165°F before consumption to kill potential Listeria bacteria. Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause serious illness, particularly in vulnerable populations. Symptoms of Listeria infection can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions, sometimes preceded by diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms. Invasive listeriosis spreads beyond the gut. Those who believe they have a Listeria infection should contact their healthcare provider. The CDC will continue to provide updates as the investigation progresses.
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