OTTAWA, Oct 1, 2008 (AFP) - An outbreak of listeriosis linked to contaminated deli meats in Canada has claimed its 20th life, the Public Health Agency of Canada said Wednesday.

The government agency said there were 52 cases of listeriosis nationally, an infection causing by the bacteria listeria monocytogenes that causes high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness and nausea.

The agency said it was also investigating another nine suspected cases of listeriosis for a possible link to a Toronto area facility at the center of the outbreak.

On August 19, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency issued a recall of Maple Leaf sliced corned beef, roast beef, pepperoni, salami, sausages, smoked ham, and turkey thought to be contaminated with the bacteria.

The number of food products recalled has risen to 220, including packaged sandwiches made with the tainted meat, with a total estimated value of 20 million dollars (14 million euros).

Food authorities say products contaminated with listeria monocytogenes may not look or smell spoiled.

Pregnant women, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk. Infected pregnant women may experience only a mild, flu-like illness, but infections can lead to premature delivery or stillbirth.