Listeriosis: A Serious Foodborne Illness

What is Listeriosis?

Listeriosis is a serious foodborne infection caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes.

Symptoms of Listeriosis

Symptoms of listeriosis can vary depending on the person infected and the part of the body affected. In most people, listeriosis can cause symptoms consistent with other foodborne illnesses, such as:

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

In pregnant women, listeriosis can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature birth. Newborns can also become infected with listeriosis during birth if their mother is infected.

People with weakened immune systems, such as those with cancer or HIV, are also at increased risk for severe listeriosis infections. In these people, listeriosis can spread to the bloodstream and cause meningitis or other serious infections.

Treatment for Listeriosis

Listeriosis is treated with antibiotics. The type of antibiotic and the length of treatment will vary depending on the severity of the infection.

Prevention of Listeriosis

There are a few things you can do to prevent listeriosis:

• Cook food thoroughly. Listeria bacteria can be killed by cooking food to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Avoid unpasteurized milk and cheese. Listeria bacteria can be found in unpasteurized milk and cheese, so it is important to avoid these products.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly. Listeria bacteria can be found on the surface of fruits and vegetables, so it is important to wash them thoroughly before eating them.
• Keep your refrigerator clean. Listeria bacteria can grow in your refrigerator, so it is important to keep it clean. Wipe down the shelves and drawers regularly, and discard any food that has gone bad.

By following these tips, you can help reduce your risk of listeriosis.