Coco & Carmen Listeria Outbreak Grows with New Cases and Suspected Food Sources

A significant listeria outbreak linked to the luxury restaurant Coco & Carmen in Stockholm has continued to develop, confirming a fourth case of listeria sepsis. Health authorities, including Smittskydd Stockholm, have reached out to around 400 restaurant patrons, advising them to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as sore throats, body aches, or gastrointestinal distress.

According to reports, several diners have required hospitalization and antibiotic treatment. A couple from Falun experienced severe symptoms following their visit, which led them to seek emergency care. As of now, while there are no confirmed cases in Dalarna, three individuals in Uppsala have been hospitalized out of ten who sought medical care after dining at the restaurant.

The acting state epidemiologist, Erik Sturegård, described the outbreak as highly unusual, noting that typically listeria infections affect vulnerable populations, yet this outbreak has resulted in rapid onset of symptoms, including sepsis among patrons. Folkhälsomyndigheten is actively investigating the outbreak, looking into potential food sources and testing both the food served and affected individuals. Reports indicate that a tasting menu served at the restaurant, which included 14 dishes, has come under scrutiny, with diners suspecting that oysters might be a source of the outbreak, even though sickness has been reported from individuals who did not consume oysters.

This investigation and health response underscore the continued public health implications of the outbreak, as health agencies coordinate efforts to manage the situation and ensure the safety of the public while tracing the source of infection.