Hispanic-style Fresh and Soft Cheeses (Queso Fresco) linked to Listeria monocytogenes

The FDA, CDC, and state and local partners investigate a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections linked to Hispanic-style fresh and soft cheeses. As of February 11, 2021, seven people infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria monocytogenes have been reported from four states (Connecticut, Maryland, New York, and Virginia). CDC’s analysis of epidemiologic information indicates that Hispanic-style fresh and soft cheeses are the leading hypotheses for the cause of the illnesses. No specific type or brand of cheese has been confirmed as the source of illness. Of the four people interviewed, three reported eating queso fresco. All seven people have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported. WGS showed that bacteria from sick people’s samples are closely related genetically, indicating that the outbreak likely from the same food. @ https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-listeria-monocytogenes-hispanic-style-fresh-and-soft-cheeses-february-2021?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery