Cold beef sparks listeria alert 

Thousands of New Zealanders are at risk of developing potentially fatal listeria infection after eating cold beef in sandwiches and salads served in two hospitals and 30 cafes.

The strain was discovered in routine tests carried out by the Waikato District Health Board and has since been linked to cold beef also served in the North Shore Hospital and supplied to cafes in Auckland and between Northland and Palmerston North.

Those most vulnerable are the very young and elderly, but also pregnant women. And in worst cases listeria can cause miscarriage or stillbirth.

The listeria was found in cold beef supplied between the beginning of February and February 20.

Remaining suspect cold beef has been recalled.

Health authorities will not say which Auckland smallgoods company supplied the meat. But it ceased manufacture after the listeria discovery was made last Friday and the factory will be tested for the source.

Listeria infection can take days, a month, or even up to 70 days to show up.

The symptoms to watch out for including flu-like fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and muscle and joint aches and pains. In severe cases it can lead to blood poisoning and meningitis.

People who have consumed pre-packaged beef who become concerned about their health over the next few weeks are advised to contact their doctor.