Sep 12, 2024 | Healthy Living

Protect yourself from listeria by educating yourself about symptoms, prevention measures, and when to seek medical help from an urgent care near you.

With the recent listeria outbreak in Boar’s Head Deli meat products, it’s more evident than ever that buying packaged meat from supermarkets may put you at risk of contracting bacterial and foodborne illnesses. That’s why Fountain City and the greater Knoxville area’s selection of fresh meat and produce, as well as Nourish Knoxville’s farm-to-table mindset, might be the better choice. Check out the Market Square Farmer’s Market, as well as local brands like the Beef Shop, Simpson’s Meats, and the Knoxville Beef Company for your grocery needs.

The recent listeria outbreak linked to Boar’s Head Deli meats has highlighted the disproportionate impact of foodborne illnesses on vulnerable populations. Pregnant women, newborns, adults with weakened immune systems, and the elderly are particularly susceptible to listeriosis, a serious infection caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes.

How Can We Protect the Most Vulnerable?

To protect vulnerable individuals from listeriosis, it’s essential to take extra precautions:

Pregnant women:

• Avoid consuming unpasteurized dairy products and raw or undercooked meats.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.
• Cook foods to their recommended internal temperatures.

Newborns:

• Breastfeed exclusively if possible.
• If formula feeding, use pasteurized formula.
• Practice good hygiene, including handwashing and sanitizing surfaces.

Individuals with weakened immune systems:

• Consult with our team of healthcare providers about dietary restrictions and other precautions.
• Avoid raw or undercooked foods, unpasteurized dairy products, and processed meats.
• Practice good hygiene and avoid contact with sick individuals.

The elderly:

• Be mindful of food safety practices, such as cooking foods thoroughly and refrigerating perishable foods promptly.

Seek medical attention at our urgent care location if you experience symptoms of listeriosis, such as fever, muscle aches, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

What Role Do Food Manufacturers Play?

Food manufacturers play a crucial role in preventing listeria outbreaks. By implementing rigorous food safety measures, such as:

Proper sanitation: Maintaining clean facilities, equipment, and utensils.
Pasteurization: Ensuring that products are adequately heated to kill harmful bacteria.
Testing: Regularly testing products for the presence of Listeria monocytogenes.
Recall procedures: Having effective procedures in place for recalling contaminated products.

Why is Public Health Education Important?

Public health education is essential for raising awareness about the risks of listeria and promoting safe food handling practices. By educating consumers about the importance of:

• Cooking foods thoroughly
• Practicing proper hygiene
• Refrigerating perishable foods promptly
• Avoiding unpasteurized dairy products and raw or undercooked meats

The Boar’s Head outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the serious consequences of listeriosis, particularly for vulnerable populations. By taking steps to prevent infection and seeking medical care from our team at AFC Fountain City when necessary, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from this potentially dangerous bacterium.