A recent outbreak of Listeria bacteria in milkshakes sold at Frugals restaurant in Parkland has been linked to six hospitalizations and three deaths. Investigators discovered Listeria in the ice cream machines at the restaurant, which were not properly cleaned. All flavors of milkshakes sold at the location were found to be contaminated with the same strain of Listeria that caused the outbreak.

While most people who consume food contaminated with Listeria will not become seriously ill, certain individuals, such as pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, are at higher risk. These individuals are advised to contact their healthcare provider if they consumed a Frugals' Tacoma milkshake between May 29 and August 7, 2023, and are experiencing Listeria symptoms.

Listeria, a bacterium that causes listeriosis, is often found in raw foods and can lead to severe infection and even death. It is estimated that around 300 deaths in the United States each year are caused by Listeria infection. Pregnant women are at a significantly higher risk of developing listeriosis, along with newborns and individuals with weakened immune systems.

The restaurant has stopped using its ice cream machines since August 8 and will keep them out of service until they are deemed free of Listeria contamination. Additional information about Listeria and its symptoms can be found on the Washington State Department of Health's website and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's Listeria website.