Three individuals tragically lost their lives as a result of a Listeria outbreak at a burger bar in Washington state. The outbreak occurred at Frugals, a popular burger restaurant in Tacoma, where customers unknowingly consumed milkshakes contaminated with Listeria bacteria. The Washington State Department of Health confirmed on August 18th that Listeria was present in all milkshake flavors at the establishment, leading to the three fatalities and hospitalizing three others.
According to the department, investigators discovered Listeria on the ice cream machines, which had not been adequately cleaned. Fortunately, no other Frugals restaurants are believed to be affected by the outbreak. The six individuals affected by the Listeria outbreak, aged between 40 and 79, were hospitalized between February 27th and July 22nd. The health department revealed that all six individuals had existing conditions that compromised their immune systems, making them more susceptible to the disease. It was determined that they had all consumed Frugals’ Tacoma milkshakes prior to falling ill.
The health department issued a cautionary statement highlighting that Listeria infection can occur up to 70 days after exposure to the bacteria. In response to the outbreak, Frugals Tacoma announced on Instagram that they have been cooperating with the Pierce County Health Department (PCHD) to identify the source of the contamination. After testing positive for Listeria on a milkshake machine at their Tacoma location, the restaurant has stopped the sale of all milkshakes. The milkshake equipment has been sent to an independent facility for cleaning and re-testing. Additionally, as a precautionary measure, Frugals has halted milkshake production at their other branches and has ordered samples to be tested for bacteria.
Frugals expressed their deep remorse and regret for any harm caused, emphasizing that the trust of their customers is of utmost importance to them as a family-owned business operating for over 30 years. They are fully cooperating with the investigation and are committed to implementing any necessary changes to maintain their high operational standards and prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that Listeria infection can be contracted through the consumption of contaminated food. Symptoms include muscle aches, fever, and fatigue. Seizures, stiff neck, confusion, headaches, and loss of balance can also occur in non-pregnant individuals.
As authorities continue to investigate the outbreak, our thoughts go out to the victims and their families who have been affected by this tragic incident. It serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining strict cleanliness and hygiene protocols in food establishments to ensure the safety of customers.
