What You Need to Know

At least two people have tragically lost their lives, and more than two dozen have been hospitalized due to a listeria outbreak linked to meat sliced at grocery store deli counters. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 28 people across 12 states have been affected, with most cases occurring in New York. The deaths have been reported in Illinois and New Jersey.

The Source of the Outbreak

While the CDC is still investigating the specific source of the outbreak, it has identified deli-sliced turkey, liverwurst, and ham as commonly reported foods among those affected. However, no information currently links prepackaged deli meats to the outbreak.

Recognizing Listeria Symptoms

Listeria infections can be severe and manifest with the following symptoms:

• Fever
• Muscle aches
• Tiredness
• Stiff neck
• Confusion
• Loss of balance
• Convulsions

These symptoms can appear rapidly or take up to 10 weeks after consuming contaminated food.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Listeria infections pose a significant risk to certain groups, including:

• Individuals older than 65
• People with weakened immune systems
• Pregnant individuals, as the infection can lead to miscarriages

The recent outbreak affected individuals aged 32 to 94, with a median age of 75. Thankfully, one pregnant individual who contracted listeria was able to retain the pregnancy.

Preventive Measures

To protect yourself and your loved ones, consider the following preventive measures:

• Avoid consuming deli meats unless thoroughly heated to an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Ensure your refrigerator is set to 40°F or lower and your freezer to 0°F or lower to prevent bacterial growth.
• Wash your hands, utensils, and food preparation surfaces thoroughly after handling raw meats.
• Pregnant individuals, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems should be particularly cautious with deli meats and other high-risk foods.

Stay Informed and Safe

Our primary care doctors in Jupiter are here to support you. If you have consumed deli meats recently and are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, please contact our office immediately. Early detection and treatment are crucial in managing listeria infections.

Stay informed by following the updates from the CDC, and don't hesitate to reach out to us with any concerns or questions. Your health and safety are our top priorities.

Stay safe, stay healthy, and remember, we are here for you.

As the summer heat intensifies, it's crucial to know how extreme temperatures can impact your medications. For patients of our primary care concierge doctor's office, staying informed about these effects can help prevent adverse health outcomes and ensure the efficacy of your treatments. Our primary care doctors in Jupiter have the information you need to know about managing your medications during a heatwave:

Medicines Susceptible to Heat Damage

Certain medications are particularly vulnerable to high temperatures, which can alter their effectiveness and safety:

1. Blood Pressure Medications: Diuretics reduce fluid in the blood, increasing the risk of dehydration. Beta-blockers can decrease blood flow to the skin, reducing your ability to sense heat.
2. Antidepressants: Some antidepressants can impair the body's ability to cool itself, exacerbating the risk of heat-related illnesses.
3. Pain Relievers: Medications like aspirin can deplete fluid and sodium levels, heightening the risk of dehydration.
4. Antibiotics and Acne Treatments: These can increase sensitivity to the sun, leading to rashes or severe sunburns. Using sun-protective clothing and high-SPF sunscreen is advisable.

Combining these medications with heat exposure can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, and falls. Alcohol can amplify these effects, so it's best to limit its consumption during hot weather.

Proper Storage of Medications

Unless otherwise specified, medications generally need to be stored in cool, dry places. Here are some tips for managing your medicines during travel or extreme heat:

• Traveling by Car: Keep medications in a cooler with ice packs to maintain a safe temperature.
• Flying: Carry medications in your carry-on bag, as the cargo hold can reach freezing temperatures.
• Home Storage: Avoid storing medications in hot areas like cars or near windows.

Concerns with Mail-Order Prescriptions

Mail-order prescriptions are convenient but can be vulnerable to temperature extremes during transit. Here’s how to ensure their safety:

• Storage and Shipping: Pharmacies should ship heat-sensitive medications with ice packs and temperature monitors.
• Upon Delivery: If you suspect your medication was exposed to excessive heat, contact your pharmacy immediately to discuss replacement options.

Research and Recommendations

The interaction between heat and medications is an evolving area of study. Some common concerns may lack extensive scientific backing, but it's crucial to err on the side of caution:

• Behavioral Adjustments: Stay out of direct sunlight and remain hydrated. These practices can help mitigate the heat’s impact on your medications.
• Consult Your Doctor: Discuss any concerns about your medications and heat exposure with your healthcare provider.

Dr. Renee Salas of Massachusetts General Hospital emphasizes the growing need to identify medications most at risk as climate change progresses. Staying informed and proactive about your medication management can help you stay healthy during extreme heat conditions.

If you have questions about your medications and how to protect them from heat, please contact our office or consult your pharmacist. Your health and safety are our top priorities.

For more information, visit our website or follow us on Facebook for regular updates and tips on staying healthy this summer.