Tacoma, August 22: In a tragic turn of events, three individuals have lost their lives, and three others were hospitalised after consuming contaminated milkshakes at a Tacoma, Washington burger restaurant. The outbreak, suspected to be caused by a listeria bacteria infection, has raised concerns about food safety practices and the potential risks posed to vulnerable populations.

According to multiple reports, Health officials from the Washington State Department of Health have identified Frugals, a local restaurant chain, as the source of the contaminated milkshakes. Listeria was found in all milkshake flavours sold at the restaurant, with investigations revealing that the ice cream machines were not properly cleaned. While the affected restaurant ceased using the ice cream machines on August 8, experts warn that listeria symptoms can manifest up to 70 days after exposure. Flesh-Eating Bacteria in US: Three Persons Die After Getting Infected With Vibrio Vulnificus Post Swimming in Connecticut and New York.

The outbreak primarily affected individuals with weakened immune systems, highlighting the severity of listeria infections in such cases. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, tiredness, headaches, stiff neck, confusion, and even seizures. Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable, as listeria can lead to serious illness, pregnancy loss, or premature births. New COVID-19 Variants Detected: PMO Reviews Coronavirus Status, Asks States To Monitor Situation.

Genetic analysis of the bacteria in the contaminated milkshakes linked the outbreak to a strain of listeria responsible for hospitalising six people between February 27 and July 22. Frugals has taken immediate action, halting milkshake sales at its Tacoma store and implementing thorough sanitisation and testing of its machines across all locations. As investigations continue, health authorities are urging anyone who consumed a Frugals' Tacoma milkshake between May 29 and August 7, 2023 and is experiencing listeria symptoms to seek medical attention promptly.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 22, 2023 11:19 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).