Life threatening bacterial outbreak linked to milkshakes from popular burger chain

Three people have died, and three others have been hospitalized after consuming milkshakes at a popular burger restaurant in Washington State, US. The milkshakes were found to be contaminated with Listeria. Listeriosis is a severe infection typically caused by consuming food contaminated with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes, as stated by the US CDC.

The outbreak was linked to ice cream machines that had not been adequately cleaned at a Frugals restaurant in Tacoma, Washington State, as mentioned in a release from the state's health department, quoted by Express UK.

Listeria is a foodborne bacterial illness that is most likely to affect the elderly, newborns, and pregnant individuals upon consumption. Listeria can survive even at freezing temperatures. Its effects can manifest up to 70 days after the bacteria has been ingested. The machines were used until August 8, according to the release.

All six affected individuals were hospitalized between February 27 and July 22, with three of them eventually passing away, as reported by the Washington Department of Health. Symptoms of Listeria include fever, muscle aches, headaches, confusion, and gastrointestinal issues.

Frugals issued a statement expressing their deep sadness over the situation. The statement read, "We are deeply saddened and regret any harm our actions may have caused. We are dedicated to implementing any necessary changes to uphold our high operational standards and prevent any recurrence."

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The company stated, "As a precaution for our patrons' safety, we have also instructed all milkshake machines at our other establishments to be shut down, and samples from these machines will be sent for similar testing. Although not mandated by the Pierce County Health Department, Frugals will also undergo comprehensive cleaning, safety, and sanitization procedures across all product categories and locations."

On August 9, Real Kosher Ice Cream recalled all flavors of their "Soft Serve On The Go" ice cream cups, as noted by the US CDC. Listeria was detected in a "Soft Serve On The Go" ice cream cup retrieved from an affected person's freezer. Laboratory experts are working to establish whether it matches the outbreak strain of Listeria.