Listeriosis: A Serious Foodborne Illness

Overview

Listeriosis is a serious infection caused by eating food contaminated with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. It is a foodborne illness that can cause a variety of symptoms, including fever, chills, and headache.

Who is at Risk?

Listeriosis can affect anyone, but certain individuals are at higher risk, including:

• Pregnant women
• Newborns
• Older adults
• People with weakened immune systems

Symptoms

Symptoms of listeriosis can vary depending on the severity of the infection. Common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Causes

Listeriosis is caused by the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. This bacterium is found in soil, water, and animals, and it can contaminate food during processing or preparation.

Common Sources of Contamination

Foods that are commonly contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes include:

• Unpasteurized milk and dairy products
• Raw or undercooked meat
• Raw or undercooked seafood
• Deli meats
• Soft cheeses
• Raw vegetables and fruits

Treatment

Listeriosis is typically treated with antibiotics. The type of antibiotic used will depend on the severity of the infection.

Prevention

There are a number of things you can do to prevent listeriosis:

• Wash your hands thoroughly before handling food
• Cook meat to a safe internal temperature
• Refrigerate perishable foods promptly
• Avoid unpasteurized milk and dairy products
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating

Conclusion

Listeriosis is a serious foodborne illness that can have severe consequences. By following these prevention tips, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from this infection.