Washington State Listeria Outbreak: Ice Cream Machines and Milkshakes Linked to Deaths
Listeria bacteria found in ice cream machines at a Frugals restaurant in Tacoma, Washington, have been linked to three deaths and six hospitalizations. The machines were not cleaned correctly, leading to a "foodborne listeriosis outbreak." The restaurant has stopped using the machines and is undergoing thorough cleaning and testing. Health officials advise pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems who consumed milkshakes from the restaurant between May 29 and August 7, 2023, to contact their healthcare provider. Listeria can cause severe illness, and symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and flu-like symptoms.