Seven more Listeria cases linked to Jindi Cheese

A further seven cases of Listeria linked to batches of Jindi soft cheese have been identified, bringing the total to 18 cases nationally. Two deaths and a miscarriage due to Listeria infection have also been reported.

“As a result of advice that Jindi has received from the Department of Health, as a consequence of new Listeriosis cases identified this week, Jindi is making a voluntary recall of all cheese produced at the plant prior to 7 January 2013,” the company’s website states.

“Jindi Cheese is cooperating fully with the Department of Health in implementing this recall.”

A number of brand names are involved in the recall, including Coles Finest, Harris Farm and Wattle Valley.

“Listeria is a bacteria that can affect a range of food products, particularly soft cheese such as camembert and brie, despite strict hygiene and manufacturing controls,” said Professor Lynn Gilbert, Clinical Lead, Infection Prevention and Control, Western Sydney Local Health District.

“The infection will cause minor or no symptoms in the vast majority of healthy people who may contract it, but it is particularly dangerous for some vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and the elderly.”

An 84-year-old Victorian man and a 44-year-old Tasmanian man have died of Listeria infection, and a NSW woman miscarried.

The full list of products is available here. For further advice, consumers can call the Jindi helpline on 1800 680 175.