Fulton County Health Department warns of listeriosis outbreak

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- The Fulton County Public Health Department has released a public service announcement warning of a listeriosis (listeria) outbreak after it was identified in an unopened package of Boar's Head liverwurst amid an investigation. Authorities say the liverwurst and other deli meats have been recalled as investigators work to learn more and see if other meats are affected.

The Fulton County Public Health Department says there have been a total of 34 cases reported involving 13 different states, including New York and surrounding states. Authorities say listeria spreads easily among deli meat equipment, surfaces, hands, and food. A full list of recalled food can be found online.

If you are pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or are 65 or older, do not eat the recalled deli meats. Authorities say unless the meats are re-heated to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit or until steaming hot, they should not be consumed.

If you have the recalled meats, you're encouraged to clean your refrigerator and other surfaces the deli meat was on. An estimated 1,600 people get listeriosis each year, and symptoms include fever, muscle aches, tiredness, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures.