Outbreak Summary
CDC has announced an outbreak of Listeria infections believed to be caused by bulk hard-boiled eggs sold by Almark Foods of Gainesville, Georgia. The known cases span five non-contiguous states (Texas, Florida, South Carolina, Pennsylvania and Maine) and began over two years ago in April of 2017. Seven people have been sickened, and one of them has died.
** This page will update as more information becomes known **
More Details
December 18, 2019 — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced a multistate outbreak of Listeria infections linked to contaminated hard-boiled eggs. Health officials traced the source of the outbreak to eggs likely produced by Almark Foods in Gainesville, Georgia.
At least seven people were infected in this outbreak, with illnesses reported across multiple states. Notably, investigators determined that the outbreak timeline spanned more than two years, beginning with the first reported cases in spring 2017 and continuing through November 2019. Three of the confirmed illnesses occurred in recent months, highlighting the ongoing risk posed by contaminated food products.
Tragically, one death was reported in Texas. In total, confirmed cases were identified across five non-contiguous states, underscoring the wide geographic reach of the contaminated eggs and the potential severity of Listeria outbreaks.
Because these hard-boiled eggs were not typically sold directly to consumers, they were commonly used by retailers and food service providers in ready-to-eat items such as egg salad, deviled eggs, and Cobb salads. This increases the risk of exposure, as consumers may unknowingly consume contaminated ingredients in prepared foods.
Individuals at higher risk for Listeria infection—including pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems—should take extra precautions. Health officials recommend discarding any store-bought hard-boiled eggs and avoiding ready-to-eat foods that may contain these products.
Listeriosis is a serious infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, a harmful bacterium that can contaminate food. While anyone can become infected, certain groups face a significantly higher risk of severe illness.
High-risk groups include:
For pregnant women, Listeriosis is often mild or even asymptomatic. However, the consequences for the fetus or newborn can be devastating. Infection during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening illness in the newborn.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Listeriosis results in fetal loss in approximately 20% of cases, and newborn fatalities occur in a smaller but significant percentage of infections. Because of these risks, pregnant women who experience symptoms should seek immediate medical care.
A Listeria infection can range from mild to severe, depending on the individual. In high-risk populations, the infection can spread beyond the digestive system and affect the bloodstream or brain.
Severe complications may include:
Prompt diagnosis and antibiotic treatment can significantly reduce the risk of serious complications. Anyone experiencing symptoms after possible exposure should seek medical attention as soon as possible.
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