Meat Producer Recalls Listeria-Tainted Ham after One Death
Meat Producer Recalls Listeria-Tainted Ham after One Death
A North Carolina-based company is recalling more than 89,000 pounds of ham products after possible listeria contamination. According to a USA Today news report, so far, one person has died and at least three others have been sickened as a result of these tainted products. Johnson County Hams has recalled the products produced between April 3, 2017 and Oct. 2, 2018, according to the Department of Agriculture. The ready-to-eat deli-loaf ham items were shipped to distributors in several states.
Investigation is Ongoing
An investigation conducted by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the US Department of Agriculture identified a link between one death and three illnesses and listeria found in deli ham produced at the company. An investigation, which is ongoing, found listeria cases occurring between July 8, 2017 and Aug. 11, 2018.
The recalled products were wrapped in plastic and carried several labels including Johnston County Hams, country Style Fully Cooked Boneless Deli Ham and Goodnight Brothers Country Ham. The USDA is still concerned that some shoppers may have these products left in their freezers. If you do, don’t eat them. Instead, discard them or return them to the point of purchase. Consumers with questions about the recall are asked to contact 919-934-8054.
Dangers of Listeria
Listeriosis is a serious infection usually caused by eating food contaminated with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. An estimated 1,600 people get listeriosis each year, and about 260 die. The infection is most likely to sicken pregnant women and their newborns, adults aged 65 or older, and people with weakened immune systems. Some of the symptoms of listeria poisoning include fever, diarrhea, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance or even convulsions. Pregnant women face additional complications including miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery or life-threatening infection of the newborn.
What Victims Can Do
If you or a loved one has been affected by listeria poisoning, you may be able to seek compensation from the manufacturer for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, pain and suffering and emotional distress. Contact an experienced food poisoning lawyer who will stay abreast of the official investigation and help ensure that you are fairly compensated for your injuries, damages and losses.
