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Outbreak Investigation of E. coli O157:H7 in Raw Cheddar Cheese (February 2024)

The FDA reported that they, the CDC, and local partners are investigating a multistate outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 infections linked to RAW FARM-brand Raw Cheddar cheese made by RAW FARM, LLC, of Fresno, CA. As of February 16, 2024, a total of 10 confirmed infections have been reported from four states, including CA (4), CO (3), TX (1), and UT (2). Whole genome sequencing analysis of E. coli isolates from ill people shows they are all closely related genetically. This means that people in this outbreak are likely to share a common source of infection. Four patients have been hospitalized; one developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious condition that can lead to kidney failure. No deaths have been reported. In response to this investigation, RAW FARM, LLC has agreed to initiate a recall of certain lots of RAW FARM- brand Raw Cheddar cheese currently within shelf life. The FDA continues to work with the firm to remove additional products from the market. The investigation is ongoing to determine the source of contamination and whether additional products are linked to illnesses. FDA will update this advisory should additional consumer safety information become available. @ https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-e-coli-o157h7-raw-cheddar-cheese-february-2024

 

Outbreak Investigation of E. coli O157:H7: Raw Cheddar Cheese

Do not eat, sell, or serve RAW FARM-brand Raw Cheddar Cheese. FDA’s investigation is ongoing.

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A new synthetic antibiotic molecule highly effective against drug-resistant bacteria

A new antibiotic created by Harvard researchers overcomes antimicrobial resistance mechanisms that have rendered many modern drugs ineffective. A team led by Andrew Myers, Amory Houghton Professor of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, reported in Science that their synthetic compound, cresomycin, kills many strains of drug-resistant bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The new molecule demonstrates an improved ability to bind to bacterial ribosomes. The Harvard team’s new molecule draws inspiration from the chemical structures of lincosamides, a class of antibiotics that includes the commonly prescribed clindamycin. The new Harvard compound is fully synthetic and features chemical modifications that cannot be accessed through existing means. @ https://phys.org/news/2024-02-superbug-killer-synthetic-molecule-highly.amp

 

Superbug killer: New synthetic molecule highly effective against drug-resistant bacteria

A new antibiotic created by Harvard researchers overcomes antimicrobial resistance mechanisms that have rendered many modern drugs ineffective and are driving a global public health crisis.

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Don Novo & Son recalls RTE meat products due to Listeria monocytogenes Contamination

The USDA/FSIS reported on February 15, 2024, that Don Novo & Son (Miami, FL) recalled approximately 9,330 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) meat products that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. The RTE meat products were produced on December 21, 2023. 1-lb. shrink-wrapped packages containing “Don Novo CHORIZO FULLY COOKED”; 1-lb. shrink-wrapped packages containing “Don Novo COSTILLAS AHUMADAS SMOKED PORK RIBS”; 12-lb. shrink-wrapped packages containing “Don Novo JAMON DULCE SWEET COOKED HAM AND WATER PRODUCTS”; 5.4-lb. to 5.5-lb. shrink-wrapped packages containing “Don Novo MORTADELLA CUBANA CUBAN BRAND MORTADELA”; 1.5-lb. shrink-wrapped packages containing “Don Novo LOMO AHUMADO SMOKED PORK LOIN.” The problem was discovered when FSIS was notified that a sample collected by a state public health partner tested positive for L. monocytogenes. There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an illness should contact a healthcare provider.  @ https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/don-novo-son-recalls-ready-eat-meat-products-due-possible-listeria-contamination

 

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In Canada Fresh Express brand Salsa! Ensalada Salad Kit was recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes

Another recall due to the Rizo-Lopez Foods cheese recall potentially contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. The Fresh Express product was made using the recalled cheese by the FDA in the US. The product was sold in Alberta and British Columbia. There have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of this product in Canada. @ https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/alert-recall/fresh-express-brand-salsa-ensalada-salad-kit-recalled-due-listeria-monocytogenes