Why has there been an increase in Listeria outbreaks in recent years?

Univ. of Nev. School of Medicine, Family Medicine

During the past decade there has been a major revolution in the ability to detect Listeria outbreaks through PulseNet, the national molecular subtyping network for foodborne bacterial disease surveillance. The CDC also enhanced outbreak surveillance during the late 1990s, including several activities to encourage states to report outbreaks.

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Food Poisoning

When food starts to rot it develops bacteria, breeds viruses, and may be infested with parasites. These or the toxins they produce may cause food poisoning. Care in putting away leftovers and tossing out questionable food will protect you. Some of the bacteria can be quite dangerous, including salmonella and E. coli. Several years ago, e coli infections traced to improperly cleaned lettuce resulted in severe illness and forced the closure of the Chi-Chi's restaurant chain.

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