At least 29 cases of Listeria have been reported now, though many more are suspected in a nation-wide outbreak that has been linked to caramel covered apples sold in single, three, four and eight packs of various styles of caramel apples. In addition to many stores pulling all brands of caramel apples from their shelves, the Happy Apple Company, based in Washington, Missouri, has announced that one if its California apple suppliers has indicated a possible link between its products and the outbreak. As a result, the Happy Apple Company is recalling all products with a “best use by date” from August 25 to November 23. The products were sold in 31 states, including: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wisconsin.
So far, five deaths have been reported, though one or more of those may not be a direct result of listeriosis, the dangerous infection caused by ingestion of the Listeria bacteria. “One of the victims was in her 80s,” says Listeria lawyer Ron Simon, noting “it’s well established that the elderly, the very young, and pregnant women are among the most susceptible to serious consequences of listeriosis. Pregnant women are especially at risk of miscarriages or still-births. Anyone who believes she is a victim of this Listeria outbreak should seek medical attention immediately.”
The attorneys at Ron Simon & Associates encourage anyone who has questions about this outbreak to call a Listeria lawyer at 1-888-335-4901.
