Harold N. Adel, MD, MPH
Commissioner
Department of Health
Andrew J. Spano
County Executive
December 30, 1999 Contact Mary Landrigan
Listeria cases linked to paté (914) 637-4715
The Westchester County Department of Health today confirmed that a paté sold by D'Artagnan has been identified as the cause of the Listeria infection in two Westchester residents this autumn. A third Westchester resident who had Listeria also recalled having eaten some type of paté.
According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officials, an investigation by health departments in Connecticut, New York, Maryland, and Cornell University has identified at least 11 cases of listeriosis caused by the same rare strain of the bacteria.
diabetes, kidney disease, AIDS, or those taking certain medicines that can suppress the immune system are at increased risk for listeriosis. It can be avoided by observing the following precautions:Although Listeria infection causes minor gastrointestinal complaints for most people, it can be a serious disease in certain people. Pregnant women who contract listeriosis are at risk of miscarriage or fetal death. Persons with weakened immune systems, such as those with cancer,
Cook raw food from animal sources thoroughly, such as beef, pork or poultry.
Wash raw vegetables thoroughly before eating.
Keep uncooked meats separate from vegetables and from cooked foods and ready-to-eat foods.
Avoid soft, runny cheeses (such as feta, Brie, Camembert, blue-veined, and Mexican-style cheese Hard cheeses, processed cheeses, cream cheese, cottage cheese, or yogurt need not be avoided.)
Wash hands, knives, and cutting boards after handling uncooked foods.
For more information, contact the Westchester County Department of Health at 813-5000 or visit our website at
www.westchestergov.com/health.-30-