The Listeria monocytogenes outbreak linked to HMC Farms' peach, plum, and nectarine in seven states has concluded, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The outbreak resulted in 11 illnesses and one death in California. The peaches were also marketed under the Signature Farms brand.
The breakdown of cases by state is as follows: California (3), Colorado (1), Florida (3), Illinois (1), Kansas (1), Michigan (1), and Ohio (1). The affected individuals ranged in age from 30 to 80 years. Illness onset dates spanned from August 22, 2018, to August 16, 2023. All ten individuals who provided information were hospitalized. One death was reported from California, and one person experienced preterm labor.
Seven interviewees confirmed to public health officials that they had consumed peaches, nectarines, or plums prior to falling ill. Whole genome sequencing indicated that the bacteria from patient isolates were genetically similar, implying that the patients were sickened by the same food source.
On October 23, 2023, the FDA collected a sample of HMC Farms peaches for testing and detected Listeria monocytogenes. Whole genome sequencing on November 6, 2023, revealed that the bacteria in the peaches were genetically similar to those found in the ill individuals, suggesting that the peaches were the likely source of the illnesses.
FDA investigates new Listeria outbreak
A new outbreak of Listeria infections is currently under investigation by federal officials. Although the source has not yet been identified, 26 patients have been found by investigators from the Food and Drug Administration. The FDA has not released details on the patients' locations or ages. The investigation is in its early stages, with traceback efforts, sampling, and on-site inspections yet to begin. The outbreak notice was first posted on January 24.
Source: foodpoisoningbulletin.com