French health authorities have ordered the immediate withdrawal of a range of soft cheeses from the market after an outbreak of listeriosis cases, which has affected 21 people aged 34–95. According to the French Public Health Agency, two of those affected have died.
Initial investigations indicate that the infection is suspected to be linked to the consumption of cheeses produced by the company Chavegrand, which use pasteurized milk. The contaminated cheeses have been distributed not only to large supermarkets within France, but also to around 30 other countries, including Albania, the United Kingdom, Norway, Belgium, Denmark and many other countries.
Listeriosis is a serious infection, particularly dangerous for pregnant women, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, nausea and, in severe cases, meningitis. French health authorities have urged people not to consume the recalled cheeses and to closely monitor their health if they have recently consumed them. In a warning to the public, officials stressed the importance of taking special care of vulnerable age groups and people with chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems.
Investigations into the exact source of the infection and measures to prevent further distribution of contaminated products continue, while authorities are coordinating actions with international partners where the cheeses have been distributed.
