Listeria Outbreak Affects Nursing Homes and Hospitals

A listeria outbreak has been reported in over 21 states, including Alabama, leading to hospitalizations and at least 12 deaths. Hospitals and nursing homes received Listeria-linked frozen supplemental shakes. If a doctor recently diagnosed you or a loved one with a listeria infection, you may qualify for compensation!

What is listeria?

Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause an infection known as listeriosis. Contaminated food commonly contains it, especially dairy products, raw vegetables, and ready-to-eat meats. The bacteria can thrive in cold environments, which is why it can survive in refrigerators.

Who is vulnerable?

Listeriosis can lead to severe health problems, particularly in vulnerable populations. This includes pregnant women, newborns, elderly individuals and people with weakened immune systems.

Which products have listeria been linked to?

Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental Shakes manufactured by Prairie Farms Dairy Inc. (“Prairie Farms”) in Fort Wayne, IN, have been recalled due to the potential for the products to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

Who distributed these products, and where and when did they reach consumers?

Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial distributed frozen supplemental shakes to hospitals and long-term care facilities, including nursing homes, across Alabama and nationwide. The CDC first investigated this outbreak in 2018 and again in 2021 and 2023. Evidence showed that a food product sickened residents in long-term care facilities and nursing homes, but officials lacked enough information to identify the specific product. In October 2024, the CDC reopened the investigation after officials reported new illnesses. In February 2025, investigators linked the outbreak strain to frozen supplemental shakes made by Prairie Farms.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms typically start within two weeks after eating Listeria-contaminated food. However, they can begin as early as the same day or up to 10 weeks after. According to the FDA, mild symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, nausea, tiredness, vomiting, and diarrhea. Symptoms of a serious form of listeriosis may include headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions.

Are you ill, seek help!

If you or your family member have symptoms of listeriosis you should contact your health care provider to report your symptoms and receive care. If serious symptoms present, seek immediate help!

Contact an attorney.

If you or a loved one were recently diagnosed with a listeria infection through no fault of your own, you may be entitled to compensation. Call the BILLION-DOLLAR law firm for a free case evaluation: (205) 324-4008

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