According to Caitlin Tilley, a Health Reporter for Dailymail.com, three individuals in Washington lost their lives due to the improper cleaning of ice cream machines. Listeria bacteria was discovered in these machines at a Frugals restaurant in Tacoma, which were used to make milkshakes. Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium, typically causes an infection when one consumes contaminated food. While most people who come into contact with Listeria do not experience serious illness, it can lead to confusion, seizures, and even miscarriage and stillbirth in pregnant women. The restaurant ceased using the ice cream machines on August 8th, but it is important to note that Listeria can still cause illness up to 70 days later. Pregnant women, individuals aged 65 and older, and those with weakened immune systems are at the highest risk. Health officials are urging vulnerable individuals who consumed a Frugals Tacoma milkshake between May 29th and August 7th, 2023, and are experiencing Listeria symptoms, to contact their healthcare provider. Investigations revealed that the ice cream machines at the restaurant located at 10727 Pacific Ave. S. in Tacoma were not properly cleaned. Genetic testing confirmed that the strain of Listeria found in the milkshakes is the same one that resulted in the hospitalization of six individuals between February 27th and July 22nd. Unfortunately, three of these individuals passed away as a result. Frugals expressed deep remorse for any harm caused and announced the suspension of all milkshake sales at its various locations. They further stated that machines in other stores will be tested for Listeria, and contaminated equipment will be sanitized and retested. While Listeria can be present in various foods, it is commonly found in unpasteurized milk, soft cheeses, and ready-to-eat foods like prepacked sandwiches. The bacterium is widespread in the environment and can be found in raw food, soil, as well as the feces of many animals. Symptoms of Listeria infection often include mild diarrhea and vomiting, typically starting within 24 hours of consuming contaminated food and lasting for one to three days. However, if the infection spreads beyond the digestive system, it becomes an invasive illness with symptoms appearing within two weeks of consuming Listeria-contaminated food. Antibiotics are used to treat the infection. The CDC reports that approximately 1,600 Americans contract Listeria each year, resulting in about 260 deaths. Invasive Listeria illness during pregnancy can lead to severe complications such as miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infections in newborns. Among non-pregnant individuals affected by invasive Listeria, the mortality rate is around 1 in 20. To avoid Listeria, it is crucial to regularly wash hands with soap and water, thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables before consumption, store ready-to-eat foods as directed by the manufacturer, and ensure hot foods are heated all the way through.
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