Three People Die in Washington Listeria Outbreak Linked to Milkshakes

 **Three people have died and three others are hospitalized after drinking milkshakes contaminated with listeria bacteria, according to the Washington State Department of Health.

The outbreak was traced back to Frugals, a popular burger and milkshake restaurant in Tacoma, Washington. Investigators found the bacteria in the ice cream machines at the restaurant.

The restaurant said in a statement that it was "deeply saddened" by the news. The ice cream machines have been cleaned and sanitized, and the restaurant is cooperating with the investigation.

Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause a serious illness called listeriosis. Symptoms of listeriosis can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, and loss of appetite. In pregnant women, listeria infection can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or newborn illness.

People who are at increased risk for listeriosis include pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

If you think you may have listeriosis, it is important to see a doctor right away. The illness can be treated with antibiotics, but early diagnosis and treatment are important.

**How to protect yourself from listeriosis**

There are a number of things you can do to protect yourself from listeriosis, including:

* Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food.

* Washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them.

* Cooking meat, poultry, and fish to safe internal temperatures.

* Avoiding raw or unpasteurized dairy products.

* Cleaning and disinfecting food contact surfaces regularly.

If you have any questions about listeriosis, or how to protect yourself from it, you can contact your local health department.

When was the last outbreak of listeria?

The last outbreak of listeria in the USA was reported in August 2023, and was linked to soft serve ice cream cups produced by Real Kosher Ice Cream of Brooklyn, NY. Two people from two states were infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria. Both people were hospitalized, but neither died.

However, there is another outbreak of listeria in the USA that is currently ongoing, and is linked to milkshakes from Frugals, a burger and milkshake restaurant in Tacoma, Washington. Three people have died and three others are hospitalized as a result of this outbreak.

Listeriosis is a serious illness caused by the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. It is important to be aware of the risks of listeriosis and to take steps to protect yourself from infection.

Source 😀 bard.google.com