Mississippi Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak Lawsuit Lawyer

Award Logos
Collen Clark Published by Collen Clark

A major legal challenge involving Boar’s Head has emerged due to a Listeria outbreak, but the focus is primarily on their facility in Jarratt, Virginia. There are no confirmed reports of a Mississippi-specific outbreak linked to a local Boar’s Head facility. 

The outbreak has led to contamination of deli meats distributed across various states, including Mississippi. While some Mississippi residents may have purchased recalled products, the state’s involvement in the outbreak has not been as significant as other areas.

If you or someone you know has been affected by the Boar’s Head listeria outbreak, Schmidt & Clark, LLP is here to assist. With a strong track record in representing plaintiffs, our primary focus is to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.

Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak: Latest Updates

As of September 2024, the Boar’s Head Listeria outbreak has affected 59 people across 19 states, with 10 fatalities. While Mississippi is included among the states where recalled products were distributed, no specific facility in Mississippi has been directly linked to the outbreak. 

The contaminated deli meats primarily originated from the Boar’s Head facility in Virginia. Consumers are urged to stay informed and check for recalled products if they are concerned about potential exposure​.

Boar’s Head’s Violations of Food Safety Regulations

Boar’s Head’s Virginia facility has been at the center of food safety violations. Inspections revealed issues such as improper sanitation, meat residue on surfaces, and inadequate employee training [1].

These violations contributed to Listeria contamination in products like liverwurst and other deli meats. 

However, there are no reports of similar violations in a Mississippi facility. The USDA and CDC have been actively monitoring the situation and overseeing the recall of contaminated products distributed nationwide​.

Though Mississippi has not been identified as a significant site of the outbreak, residents who purchased recalled Boar’s Head products and developed Listeria-related illnesses may still be eligible to file claims. 

Also Read: Massachusetts Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak Lawsuit

Which Boar’s Head Products Are Recalled in in Mississippi?

Although Mississippi is not at the outbreak’s epicenter, residents who purchased recalled Boar’s Head products like ham, turkey, and roast beef should look for USDA inspection marks EST. 38951′ or ‘P-38951’ [2].

These products were distributed between May 2024 and July 2024; some may have been sold in Mississippi. Residents are encouraged to follow updates from health officials​.

“An unopened Boar’s Head liverwurst product tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes. WGS is ongoing to determine if the Listeria in the liverwurst is the same as the ill people.”- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

What is Listeria Monocytogenes?

Listeria monocytogenes is a resilient bacterium that can thrive in cold environments, such as refrigeration units and is commonly found in ready-to-eat meat products. It can quickly colonize food processing equipment, making it difficult to control processing plants [3]. 

The bacterium is especially dangerous for pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Health officials continue to monitor the outbreak and recalled products should be avoided​.

Listeria Symptoms 

Common symptoms may develop within a few days to several weeks after consuming contaminated food. 

Here’s an overview of the most frequent signs [4]:

  • Fever: A persistent fever is often the first sign of infection.

  • Muscle Aches: Muscle pain and stiffness, similar to flu-like symptoms.

  • Nausea or Vomiting: Gastrointestinal symptoms may appear in the early stages.

  • Diarrhea: Stomach discomfort and diarrhea are typical early signs.

  • Headache: Intense or prolonged headaches are common as the infection progresses.

If Listeria spreads beyond the gastrointestinal tract, it can cause more severe complications, especially in vulnerable groups like pregnant women, the elderly, newborns, and immunocompromised individuals. 

Severe symptoms include:

  • Neck Stiffness: A sign of potential meningitis.

  • Confusion: Mental confusion or difficulty concentrating.

  • Loss of Balance: Problems with coordination leading to instability.

  • Convulsions: Seizures can occur in severe cases.

Pregnant women might experience milder flu-like symptoms, but Listeria can cause more severe outcomes, such as:

  • Miscarriage

  • Stillbirth

  • Premature delivery

  • Life-threatening infection in newborns

Who Can File a Boar’s Head Meat Lawsuit in Mississippi?

Mississippi residents who consumed recalled Boar’s Head products and developed illnesses can file a Boar’s Head Meat lawsuit in Mississippi. The state’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims related to foodborne illnesses is three years. 

Legal support from firms like Schmidt & Clark, LLP can help claimants explore their options and pursue compensation for medical expenses and other damages​.

Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak Lawsuit Average Settlement Amounts in Mississippi

While settlement amounts vary depending on the severity of the illness, those hospitalized or with long-term health effects may receive higher compensation. 

Mississippi residents suffering from contaminated Boar’s Head products may pursue claims for economic and non-economic damages. Wrongful death claims must be filed within three years from the date of death.

The current legal landscape includes ongoing individual lawsuits and potential class action claims. The primary legal focus has been on the Virginia facility, but Mississippi residents affected by the recalled products are encouraged to seek legal advice. 

Individual lawsuits often result in higher compensation, while class action suits can streamline the legal process for multiple claimants.

The Mississippi State Department of Health continues to monitor the situation, and legal proceedings will aim to hold Boar’s Head accountable for any illnesses linked to their contaminated products​.

Filing a Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak Lawsuit in Mississippi

Mississippi residents impacted by the outbreak should begin by seeking a free consultation to explore their legal options. Important evidence may include medical records and receipts connecting illnesses to recalled Boar’s Head products. 

Get Your Free Consultation From Mississippi Boar’s Head Lawsuit Lawyers

Schmidt & Clark,LLP is committed to supporting you during these difficult times. If you or a loved one has been affected by the Boar’s Head Listeria outbreak, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Our experienced legal team will help you navigate each step and safeguard your rights under Mississippi law.

We will help you understand your rights and determine your eligibility for compensation related to the listeria outbreak. Our consultations are free, and we only charge fees if we win your case. Contact us for a thorough evaluation of your situation and to explore your legal options.

References:

  1. https://www.inc.com/associated-press/plant-linked-to-listeria-deaths-had-many-food-safety-violations.html

  2. https://boarshead.com/products-recall-2024

  3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534838/

  4. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/listeria-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20355269

Get a Free Case Review

You may be entitled to financial compensation.
Secure Submission