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What caused the listeria outbreak linked to Boar's Head?
The listeria outbreak was traced back to liverwurst produced at Boar's Head's Jarratt, Virginia plant. Health inspections revealed severe sanitation violations, prompting the indefinite closure of the facility. The outbreak has resulted in at least 59 illnesses and two fatalities in New York and South Carolina.
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How can consumers protect themselves from foodborne illnesses?
Consumers can protect themselves by practicing safe food handling techniques, such as washing hands before preparing food, cooking meats to the appropriate temperatures, and avoiding cross-contamination. It's also important to stay informed about food recalls and outbreaks through reliable sources like the CDC.
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What are the symptoms of listeria infection?
Symptoms of listeria infection can include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can lead to meningitis or septicemia, particularly in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
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What actions are being taken to address the outbreak?
In response to the outbreak, Boar's Head has closed its Jarratt plant and initiated a recall of over 7 million pounds of deli meats. The CDC and local health departments are actively investigating the outbreak and monitoring affected individuals to prevent further spread.
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What are the economic impacts of the plant's closure on the local community?
The closure of Boar's Head's Jarratt plant has significant economic implications for the local community, which heavily relies on the facility for employment. Local residents have expressed concerns about job losses and the long-term effects on the town's economy as the company navigates the aftermath of the outbreak.