The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is investigating a listeria outbreak among people who have eaten meats sliced at deli counters, including nine cases in New York and New Jersey.
Seven people in New York and two people in New Jersey have been affected, out of nearly 30 people so far in the Northeast, Midwest and South, according to the health agency.
Nationwide, 28 people have been hospitalized and two have died, including one person from New Jersey, the CDC said on Friday.
Investigators are still collecting information to determine the source of the outbreak and are focusing on products sliced or prepared at delis.
“89% reported eating meats sliced at deli counters,” stated a CDC advisory based on interviews with people who became ill. “Our investigation is ongoing to determine which deli meat may be contaminated.”
Groups that are especially vulnerable to the effects of listeria include people who are pregnant, 65 or older, or have a weakened immune system. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. Pregnant people who catch listeria can experience pregnancy loss, premature birth or a life-threatening infection in their newborns, according to health officials.
The state and city health departments did not immediately respond to questions about the outbreak.
This is a developing story and will be updated.