Listeria and Listeriosis

What is Listeria?

Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause a serious infection called listeriosis. The bacteria are commonly found in soil, water, and the intestines of animals. There are several species of Listeria, but Listeria monocytogenes is the most common cause of human illness.

What is Listeriosis?

Listeriosis is a bacterial infection caused by eating food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. The infection can affect anyone, but it is most severe in older adults, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. Listeriosis can cause a range of symptoms, from mild to life-threatening.

Symptoms of Listeriosis

The symptoms of listeriosis can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the individual's overall health. Common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Confusion
• Loss of balance
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain

Severe Symptoms of Listeriosis

In severe cases, listeriosis can cause more serious symptoms, including:

• Meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord)
• Sepsis (a life-threatening response to an infection)
• Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)
• Pregnancy complications, such as miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature birth

Risk Factors for Listeriosis

Certain individuals are at higher risk of developing listeriosis, including:

• Pregnant women
• Older adults (65 years and older)
• People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy
• People taking immunosuppressive medications
• Newborns

Treatments for Listeriosis

Listeriosis is typically treated with antibiotics. The most commonly used antibiotics are:

• Ampicillin
• Gentamicin
• Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole

Prevention of Listeriosis

To reduce the risk of listeriosis, it is essential to follow proper food safety guidelines:

• Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling food
• Keep raw meat, poultry, and seafood separate from ready-to-eat foods
• Cook food to the recommended internal temperature
• Avoid unpasteurized dairy products and juices
• Avoid soft cheeses, such as brie and feta, unless they are made from pasteurized milk
• Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C)

Food Safety Guidelines for High-Risk Individuals

Individuals at high risk of listeriosis should take extra precautions when handling and consuming food:

• Avoid deli meats, hot dogs, and soft cheeses unless they are heated to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C)
• Avoid raw sprouts, such as alfalfa and bean sprouts
• Choose pasteurized dairy products and juices
• Cook eggs until the yolks are firm
• Avoid foods that have been recalled due to Listeria contamination