ECDC Issues an Official LAST MINUTE ALERT for Millions of Europeans

The ECDDC has issued an official last-minute alert at European level, due to a recent extended genomic cluster of 20 human infections with Listeria monocytogenes ST1607, reported by experts, highlighting the increased risks of infection in Denmark, Germany and Italy. ECDC highlighted that the number of cases increased significantly after 2021, with the most recent being reported in March 2024 in Denmark.

The ECDC stated that out of a total of 20 cases of listeriosis, five resulted in deaths, one of which was from causes other than L. monocytogenes infection. These data show a high severity of infection, especially among elderly people with underlying chronic conditions.

National investigations, carried out by health authorities, involved genomic analyzes and traceability of food products. ECDC identified five isolates of L. monocytogenes ST1607 from four batches of sliced ​​smoked salmon produced by Danish Processing Plant A between 2021 and 2024. Contaminated products were distributed in the three countries reporting human cases to ECDC.

ECDC Issues an Official LAST MINUTE ALERT for Millions of Europeans

The ECDC concluded that the identification of the outbreak strain in the environment of the Danish plant in 2023 and in products from 2021 indicates that L. monocytogenes ST1607 persisted inside the facility and the points of contamination have not yet been properly identified and controlled. ECDC notes that although control measures have been implemented and contaminated lots withdrawn, new lots of contaminated products could be introduced into the market.

The ECDC states that smoked salmon products in slices are considered the likely sources of infection. Given that the root of the contaminations has not yet been identified, ECDC warns that new cases may occur in EU/EEA countries, particularly among vulnerable people, until appropriate corrective measures are implemented.

ECDC continues to monitor the situation and collaborate with national authorities to identify and control the sources of contamination. ECDC emphasizes the importance of strict monitoring and rapid implementation of food safety measures to prevent the spread of infection.