On 18 January, the Victorian based Jindi Cheese Company voluntarily recalled its cheeses from all batches it manufactured up until 7 January.

Nationally, the total number of listeriosis cases linked to the outbreak stands at 26 cases. In NSW there are 10 confirmed cases with 1 adult death and 1 foetal death.

The most recent confirmation is that of a 68-year-old NSW man who died in late January.

All of the recent cases are believed to have eaten cheese produced by Jindi prior to 7 January.

While no further new cases have been identified this month, NSW Health is warning that, because of the 70-day incubation period for listeria, people who have consumed cheese manufactured prior to the recall could still be affected.

People are urged to check their fridges and discard or return to place of purchase any cheese that is on the list of recalled products. If the brand or best before date is unknown, do not consume the cheese, it should be discarded instead.

“It’s still very important for people to check their fridges to see if they have any of the recalled cheeses and take appropriate action” said Professor Wayne Smith, Acting Director of Health Protection, NSW Health.

Professor Lynn Gilbert, Clinical Lead, Infection Prevention and Control, Western Sydney Local Health District, said that at risk groups should be aware that some foods are potentially harmful to them.

“Pregnant women, and the elderly, in particular need to aware of this recall” said Prof Gilbert.

“Listeria is a bacteria that can affect a range of food products, particularly soft cheeses such as camembert and brie, despite strict hygiene and manufacturing controls,” Prof Gilbert said.

“The infection will cause minor or no symptoms in the vast majority of healthy people who may contract it, but is particularly dangerous for some vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and the elderly. Early symptoms of listeria include fever, headache, tiredness, aches and pains.”

“It’s extremely important that at risk groups are aware of the dangers of associated with soft cheeses and what Jindi products have been recalled.”

There are a number of brand names included in the recall.

Consumers can call the Jindi helpline on 1800 680 175 for further information.

Information about listeria, and the type of foods at risk, can be found at NSW Health listeria alert.