United States Health Officials have confirmed a listeria outbreak linked to enoki mushrooms. 4 people have died and 30 have been hospitalized from the outbreak. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed the outbreak.

According to the CDC, 17 states have been affected with deaths in California, Hawaii and New Jersey. Sun Hong Foods recalled the product due to possible contamination. Contaminated products were reportedly sold to distributors in California, Florida, Illinois, Oregon and Texas.

The CDC advised people to stop buying and eating mushrooms labeled “Product of Korea.” Enoki mushrooms have long stems and small caps. They are usually sold in clusters and are also called enokitake, golden needle, futu or lily mushrooms.

Listeria is especially dangerous to pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of listeria infection, listeriosis, incldue headache, stiff neck, convulsions, loss of balance and confusion. Pregnant women may experience flu-like symptoms. Listeriosis is usually treated with antibiotics.

Sun Hong Foods issued a recall on March 9, 2020. The CDC recommends you wash and sanitize any surface that contained the enoki mushrooms and throw out any mushrooms distributed by the company.

Contact your doctor if you believe you may have come in contact with any infected product.

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