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Listeriosis is a potentially serious food-borne infection. It is caused by the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. These bacteria are often found in the environment, particularly in soil, vegetation, and the feces (bowel movements) of humans and animals.
Listeriosis is caused by eating food contaminated with the listeria bacteria. A large variety of foods can contain listeria, including unpasteurized milk, soft cheeses, ready-to-eat meats, produce, and seafood. Pregnant women who get infected can pass it to the fetus or to the newborn during delivery.
Listeriosis can start with flu-like symptoms such as fever and muscle aches, headache and backache, and diarrhea can also occur. In serious cases, this illness may lead to meningitis or blood infection. Either of these conditions can cause death, particularly in the very young, the very old, or those with underlying medical conditions. Listeriosis can also cause miscarriage or stillbirths in pregnant women, or illness in newborn children.
You can reduce the risk of Listeriosis by following good food handling practices such as:
As well, Listeria may grow slowly even at refrigeration temperatures, so people at risk should not keep food in the refrigerator for more than seven days.
People at risk should either avoid or cook well the following foods:
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