The USDA and the CDC are investigating a multistate outbreak of listeria that interview data links back to meat sliced at deli counters.
At least 57 people in 18 states have been sickened, including one in Arizona.
Officials say the outbreak could be underreported because of delays in identifying the strain, and many patients recovering without needing medical attention. But so far, nine people have died, and every reported case has required hospitalization.
Listeria can survive on surfaces like deli slicers, even in cold conditions, and symptoms can take up to 10 weeks to appear.
The CDC is encouraging people to avoid recalled deli meats – especially anyone pregnant, over 65, or with a weakened immune system.
Some of the recalled products have "sell by" dates as far out as October 2024.
