HEALTH

United States warns of deadly Listeria cheese outbreak

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United States health authorities are warning consumers about a growing multi-state outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections linked to soft and semi-soft cheeses produced by Clover Hill Dairy, LLC of Mechanicsville, Maryland. In an updated public health alert issued on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration reported that at least 12 people have been sickened across four states: Maryland, New York, Virginia and Illinois. Ten patients have required hospitalization, and one person in Maryland has died. The agencies said three of the confirmed illnesses occurred since their previous update on June 15, 2026, indicating the outbreak continues to expand. United States investigators traced the infections to Clover Hill Dairy products through a combination of laboratory testing and traceback analysis carried out by state and federal agricultural inspectors, including food inspectors with the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. Genetic sequencing of clinical samples showed that all patients were infected by the same strain of Listeria monocytogenes, with illness onset dates ranging from March 6, 2023, to June 2, 2026, pointing to a prolonged contamination problem. Public health officials noted that the official case count likely understates the true scope of the outbreak, because some people recover without medical care or specific diagnostic testing, and recent illnesses can take several weeks to be fully investigated and added to the tally.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Mar 6, 2023: First linked Listeria infection documented
2023–2026: Same Listeria strain repeatedly identified
June 2, 2026: Most recent confirmed patient sample
June 15, 2026: Previous CDC outbreak update released
June 24, 2026: CDC, FDA issue updated warning
June 24, 2026: Outbreak totals reach twelve infections
June 24, 2026: Ten hospitalizations, one death confirmed
Ongoing: Traceback links outbreak to Clover Hill Dairy

Why This Matters to You

Your health is at risk if you've eaten soft or semi-soft cheese from Clover Hill Dairy. Listeria can cause serious illness, especially in older adults or those with weakened immune systems. Check your fridge and toss any suspect products.

The Bottom Line

This Listeria outbreak is serious and growing. It's linked to one dairy and has already caused hospitalizations and a death. Stay safe by avoiding Clover Hill Dairy cheeses until further notice. Worth forwarding if you know a cheese lover.