**

A deadly listeria outbreak linked to ready-to-eat chicken Alfredo meals sold at Walmart and Kroger has claimed three lives and sickened at least 17 others, prompting an urgent nationwide recall. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are working together to investigate the source of the contamination and warn consumers to avoid consuming these potentially fatal meals.

Listeria Outbreak: A Nationwide Health Alert

The outbreak, first identified in late October 2024, has spread across multiple states, highlighting the serious risk posed by foodborne illnesses. The implicated product, a pre-packaged chicken Alfredo meal, is suspected to be the source of the Listeria monocytogenes bacteria responsible for the severe illnesses. The CDC has confirmed that DNA fingerprinting of isolates from ill patients strongly links the outbreak to this specific product. This points to a serious lapse in food safety procedures somewhere in the production and distribution chain.

Who is Affected?

The affected individuals range in age from 25 to 78 years old, with the majority showing symptoms consistent with listeriosis. This underscores the fact that listeria can affect individuals of all ages, though the elderly, pregnant women, newborns, and people with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to severe complications.

Symptoms of Listeriosis to Watch For:

It is crucial to understand the symptoms of listeriosis to seek prompt medical attention if you suspect infection. These can include but are not limited to:

• Fever
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Confusion
• Loss of balance
• Convulsions
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting

If you have consumed the recalled chicken Alfredo meals and are experiencing any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to improving the chances of recovery.

Recalled Chicken Alfredo Meals: What You Need to Know

The FDA and CDC are working tirelessly to pinpoint the exact manufacturing facility and distribution channels responsible for the contaminated chicken Alfredo meals. The recall affects specific batches of the product sold under various brand names at both Walmart and Kroger stores nationwide. Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and discard any potentially affected products immediately.

How to Identify the Recalled Product:

Specific details regarding affected batch numbers, sell-by dates, and product identification codes will be released by the FDA and respective retailers. Regularly check the FDA website and the websites of Walmart and Kroger for updated recall information and product images. The information will likely include:

• Brand Name: [Insert Brand Name Here - This information will need to be added once the recall is officially announced]
• Product Name: Chicken Alfredo
• Packaging: [Describe packaging details, e.g., size, type of container]
• Batch Numbers: [List batch numbers once available]
• Sell-By Dates: [List affected sell-by dates once available]

What to Do if You Have Recalled Product:

Do not consume the recalled chicken Alfredo meals. Thoroughly wash any surfaces that may have come into contact with the product. If you have any concerns about possible contamination, contact your local health department or the CDC.

Preventing Listeria Contamination: Food Safety Tips

This outbreak underscores the importance of practicing safe food handling techniques to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses like listeriosis. Here are some essential tips to protect yourself and your family:

• Properly refrigerate perishable foods: Keep refrigerated foods at or below 40°F.
• Cook foods to safe internal temperatures: Use a food thermometer to ensure that meats are cooked to their recommended internal temperatures.
• Wash your hands thoroughly: Wash hands frequently with soap and water before and after handling food.
• Clean and sanitize surfaces: Regularly clean and sanitize all kitchen surfaces, including countertops, cutting boards, and utensils.
• Avoid cross-contamination: Keep raw meats separate from ready-to-eat foods.
• Check expiration dates: Do not consume food past its expiration date.

The Ongoing Investigation: What's Next?

The FDA and CDC are conducting a comprehensive investigation into the root cause of the contamination. This will likely involve tracing the chicken Alfredo meals back to their origin, inspecting food processing facilities, and analyzing samples to identify the specific point of contamination. The results of this investigation will be crucial in preventing future outbreaks and improving food safety regulations.

The Importance of Prompt Reporting: Protecting Public Health

If you have consumed the recalled chicken Alfredo meals and experienced symptoms of listeriosis, it's vital to report your illness to your healthcare provider and the local health department. Early reporting is crucial for aiding the investigation and helping prevent further cases. This collective effort to track and address the outbreak will help minimize its impact and protect the wider community.

This outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for stringent food safety standards throughout the entire food production and distribution chain. The collective efforts of consumers, retailers, and regulatory bodies are essential in ensuring our food supply remains safe. Stay informed by regularly checking updates from the FDA and CDC, and prioritize safe food handling practices to protect yourself and your loved ones.